The Department of Transportation yesterday unveiled a new design for the modern public utility vehicle.
In a Facebook post, DOTr said a test run has been made for the Toyota Hilux modern PUV with transport officials and representatives from Toyota Motor Philippines Corp (TMPC).
The DOTr said the vehicle can accommodate 12 people, is air conditioned and will be equipped with GPS, wifi and dashcam.
The new design can also accommodate people with disabilities.
“Ang Toyota Hilux Class 1 modern PUV ang magiging pambato ng TMPI para sa isinusulong na Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program ng gobyerno,” the DOTr said in a statement. The new PUV design costs Php998,000.
The PUV modernization program is now under fire because the program can put a lot of drivers’ jobs in jeopardy as they could not afford the new units.
The program was ordered in 2017 to phase out old jeepneys and UV express vehicles. It was later on suspended after much opposition from transport groups. TN
