Comprehensive profiling of PUJ operators underway in Bacolod City

PUJ PROFILING. Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez (center) and City Planning and Development Office head Mary Jean Ramos (left) discuss the conduct of comprehensive database profiling of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) operating within the city on Tuesday (May 6, 2025). (Photo courtesy of Bacolod City PIO)

BACOLOD CITY — The city government here is conducting a comprehensive database profiling of public utility jeepney (PUJ) operators until May 9.

This action is part of its collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to develop a sustainable mass public transportation plan.

“The objective is to establish a more efficient, reliable and environmentally sustainable public transport system,” City Planning and Development Office head Mary Jean Ramos said in a statement on Tuesday.

The data-gathering covers operators of registered modernized PUJs.

It also includes those who have consolidated under the modernization program but whose units are not yet compliant with the documents required by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and Land Transportation Office.

Those who have not yet consolidated, including those currently plying the streets, are also included.

The profiling of PUJ operators by route started on April 30, following Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon’s visit to the city on April 25.

Ramos noted that during Dizon’s visit, the DOTr chief and Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez agreed on the need to review the national government’s Public Transport Modernization Program.

They also believe gaps must be identified and the concerns of operators, drivers, and passengers must be addressed.

Also discussed were the city’s proposal of granting authority or deputizing local government units to apprehend “colorum” or unauthorized vehicles; approval and implementation of green routes; migration to electric vehicles (EVs); provision of financing options for e-jeepney operators; and establishment of EV charging stations across the city.

Under the Local Public Transport Route Plan, the city has identified 24 routes for modernized jeepneys.

Currently, at least 605 modern units are plying the various routes along with 1,266 traditional jeepney units approved for consolidation.

The initial assessment showed a shortfall of around 1,200 units to adequately service the 24 routes.