15/07/2023
OTC supports DOTr and LTFRB amidst allegations and controversies lodged by the Manibela Association
In a press conference of Mr. Valbuena of Manibela Association, he slammed the LTFRB’s supposed favoritism in awarding public transport routes to politicians, local government units and corporations, which he claimed has led to the easing out of transport cooperatives. Allegedly, routes are being bidded out for a fee.
With the DOTr Secretary Bautista’s marching order to hold continuing and widescale dialogues and consultations, the LTFRB with DOTr and Office of Transportation Cooperatives (OTC) have been going around the country the past weeks and will still carry on in the succeeding weeks to help out in engaging and consulting not only transport cooperatives but also local government units and corporations to hear their concerns and recommendations to enhance the Program. OTC Chairman Andy Ortega was quoted sharing that in the said engagements, these allegations were not raised but more on how the Cooperatives will be able to participate in the modernization program. He added that - “Marami na po kaming nakausap ng mga Kooperatiba at iba’t-ibang suliranin ay amin na-solusyonan na at ang iba ay hinahanapan pa.” He also emphasized that there are concerns/issues that cannot be instantly addressed and may still require certain time, coordination and appraisal to be tackled. The important thing is that DOTr has open doors for consultations/dialogues.
The LTFRB has always been fair in implementing its mandate under the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines (OFG) and its dealing with its clientele, either corporations or cooperatives. They are both duly recognized legal entities for public transport and are given equal opportunities in vying for franchises/authority subject to compliance with the requirements. In closing, Chairman Ortega relayed that the entire DOTr-family is truly and seriously working to find ways and means to improve our public transport system in partnership and coordination with its major stakeholders, the operators and drivers.
