WASTED HOURS | Commuters believe waiting time in public transportation too long, says survey

July 19, 2022 , 02:11 PM

By Beatrice Puente

(July 19, 2022) – Most commuters in Metro Manila believe they spend long waiting times during their commute as they deal with a limited number of public utility vehicles (PUVs) on the road, a survey by a transport advocacy group revealed on Tuesday.

The Passenger Forum (TPF) said at least 79% of 100 respondents affirmed the view that they endure long hours when commuting. Around 96% believe there are insufficient PUVs available. The survey was conducted from July 16 to 17.

“This number (79%) confirms what we regularly see on the roads and sidewalks, especially during rush hours,” said TPF convenor Primo Morillo. “Of the remaining 21%, five own a bicycle or e-scooter and another four are neutral or can’t decide whether their waiting is too long or not.”

In recent weeks, commuters have taken to social media to lament the unfortunate state of public transportation that forces them to experience congestion and long lines. Many shared that they need to leave home three hours early but still fail to get to their destination on time.

Traffic along EDSA has returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to the Metro Manila Development Authority, pegging the average daily volume at around 318,400 as of June.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) secretary Jaime Bautista has made lofty promises of transforming the transportation industry to be at par with global standards. He also expressed interest in riding PUVs himself to experience the daily struggles of commuters. A former president of Philippine Airlines, he recently tried the MRT-3.

“With many daunting tasks ahead of us, I ask for your help in making this administration succeed in solving the seemingly insurmountable transport concerns of Filipinos,” said Bautista last July 1.

Last May, former DOTr secretary Arthur Tugade claimed they “delivered” in addressing the transportation woes.

“Never before in the history of this country has the DOTr done so much in such a short time,” declared Tugade during an event hailing the alleged legacies of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Bus operators admitted that they have fewer units on the road because many of them have yet to receive payments under the Libreng Sakay program of the DOTr. They are also appealing for the reactivation of their old routes to make things bearable for commuters.

Morillo echoed the proposal to meet the demands of the public.

“The government should allow more PUVs to ply routes through the revival of past franchises and granting new ones for underserved and unserved areas,” said Morillo.

In the survey, many respondents also pushed for additional train lines and transport interconnectivity. They also said the sidewalks are too narrow, seeking more infrastructures for better protection of commuters such as waiting sheds and integrated terminals.

“We hope these findings will guide our new government on how they can make a difference in the lives of ordinary Filipino commuters,” said Morillo.

(PM)

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