Apayao, Philippines - In a move to alleviate the transportation woes of its residents, Apayao is set to implement a comprehensive Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP) starting this year.
The lack of a defined local public transport route has posed challenges for some residents, but relief is on the horizon with the anticipated launch of the route plan in 2024.
The significant stride towards enhancing Apayao's transportation system was taken by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, which passed Provincial Ordinance No. 18-A S. 2023 during a regular session held on November 28, 2023, reported by the province’s Public Information Office.
Crafted by Board Member Alison Betat, Chairperson of the SP Committee on Transportation, the ordinance gained approval from Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr. on December 4, 2023.
Aligned with the government's Public Utility Vehicle Modernization program, the five-year Apayao Public Transport Route Plan (APTRP) aims to create a restructured, modern, well-managed, and environmentally sustainable transport sector.
At its core, the plan prioritizes the stability and dignity of livelihoods for drivers and operators, ensuring that commuters can reach their destinations swiftly, safely, and comfortably.
One crucial aspect of the ordinance is the adoption and recognition of the LPTRP as the cornerstone for a comprehensive local transport plan. It serves as a prerequisite for the issuance of Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) franchises within the jurisdiction of Apayao.
To guarantee the effective implementation of the APTRP, a dedicated team will be formed, with Governor Bulut Jr. serving as the chairperson and the vice-governor as the co-chairperson. The team, said the office, will include members representing various government agencies and private entities, such as the SP Committee on Transportation, Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO), Provincial Engineering Office (PEO), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Land Transportation Office (LTO), transport groups, business sector, academe, among others.
Buoyed by this development, the province's legislative body is now poised to pass another ordinance facilitating the opening of key transport routes within Apayao. These routes encompass the 97.02-kilometer Kabugao (Balinawang, Poblacion) - Luna (Payanan, Turod) Route and Vice Versa, the 33.03-kilometer Conner (Malama) - Kabugao (Balinawang, Poblacion) Route and Vice Versa, the 63.36-kilometer Calanasan (Rimut, Poblacion) - Kabugao (Balinawang, Poblacion) Route and Vice Versa, and the 10.02-kilometer Flora (Poblacion East) - Sta. Marcela (San Carlos) Route and Vice Versa, added the information office.
On May 15, 2023, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office (RFRO) issued a notice of compliance, signifying the approval of the LTFRB for the proposed LPTRP of Apayao, laying the foundation for a more organized and efficient local public transport system.
As the wheels of progress are set in motion, Apayao's residents can look forward to a future where commuting becomes a seamless and reliable experience, marking a transformative era in the province's transportation landscape.
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