By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is accelerating efforts to improve the commuting experience nationwide with the construction of 103 additional modern public utility vehicle (PUV) stops equipped with safety and convenience features designed for today’s commuters.
The agency recently showcased one of its newly completed modern PUV stops in Marikina City, highlighting the government’s commitment to providing safer, more comfortable, and accessible public transportation facilities.
According to the DOTr, the modern PUV stops go beyond the traditional waiting shed concept. Each facility is equipped with solar-powered lighting, CCTV cameras, safety bollards, seating areas, charging stations, and bicycle repair stations to better serve the needs of commuters.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the project aims to address the daily challenges faced by commuters, particularly during extreme weather conditions.
“Ramdam natin ang hirap ng mga komyuter lalo na kung mainit o umuulan at naghihintay sila ng sasakyan. Kaya nagtatayo tayo ng karagdagang modern PUV stops sa iba pang lugar sa bansa dahil ang bilin ng Pangulo ay gawing ligtas at maginhawa ang biyahe ng mga pasahero, lalo na ang mga senior citizens, persons with disabilities, at estudyante,” Lopez said.
The DOTr noted that many commuters have long been exposed to heat and rain while waiting for public transport. In some areas, inadequate lighting near schools has also raised safety concerns for students traveling home after dark.
To address these issues, the agency has already completed 24 modern PUV stops in Metro Manila and Aklan. These facilities are located in Marikina, Manila, Malabon, Quezon City, Kalibo, and Malay.
Meanwhile, 19 additional PUV stops are currently under construction in Muntinlupa City and Iloilo. Funding has also been secured for 84 more stops in Palayan City, Science City of Muñoz, Zamboanga City, Quezon City, Calapan, Cebu City, and Mandaue City.
The DOTr said the nationwide expansion forms part of the government’s broader transportation modernization efforts aimed at enhancing commuter safety, accessibility, and convenience.
Once completed, the modern PUV stop network is expected to benefit thousands of daily commuters, particularly senior citizens, persons with disabilities, students, and workers who rely heavily on public transportation.
Officials said the project reflects the administration’s commitment to building a more efficient, inclusive, and commuter-friendly transport system across the country.
ia/xf
