LTFRB-Davao Achieves 88% PUV Consolidation Rate, Boosting Commuter Access
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Davao Region (LTFRB-Davao) has announced a significant milestone in its Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) consolidation efforts, reaching an 88 percent rate as of January 2026. This marks a two-percentage-point increase from the 86 percent recorded in January 2024 for units operating outside Davao City, showcasing steady progress in the region's transport modernization initiatives.
Details from Kapihan sa PIA Forum
During the Kapihan sa PIA held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at NCCC Mall Ma-a, Deanne Aubrey Salcedo, legal section assistant of LTFRB-Davao, provided insights into the consolidation achievements. She stated that from 2025 to January 2026, the region has successfully consolidated 88 percent of all PUV units in total. This update builds on earlier reports, such as a SunStar Davao article from January 14, 2024, which noted an 83 percent consolidation rate for Public Utility Jeepneys and 89 percent for UV Express units, with a 100 percent submission rate for applications and 73 modernized PUVs already in operation.
Impact on Traffic and Commuter Experience
Oscar Don A. Zamora, Head of the Davao City North District Land Transportation Office, highlighted the positive effects of consolidation on traffic congestion and commuter access. He explained, "During rush hour on the highways, we can see passengers gathering. In schools and malls — even around SM at about 9 p.m. — our commuters still have no rides. So it is a big help that we now have transport operators." This improvement is attributed to better-organized transport services, which have enhanced mobility for over 1.3 million riders in the Davao Region.
Background on PUV Modernization Program
The consolidation efforts are part of the broader Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), which was implemented following guidelines under Memorandum Circular 2023-051. This circular took effect on January 1, 2024, after the national consolidation deadline set for December 31, 2023. Routes were categorized based on whether they met a 60 percent consolidation threshold, with the LTFRB revoking permits and Provisional Authorities (PAs) for individual PUV operators on routes without consolidated Transport Service Entities (TSEs). Operators who missed the deadline to consolidate or file applications have not had their units approved for PUV registration.
Future Outlook and Regional Progress
Since the 2023 consolidation deadline, the PUVMP in Davao Region has made steady advancements, now encompassing expanded vehicle types and major transport entities. The initiative continues to focus on modernizing the fleet and strengthening transport infrastructure, with the region poised to build on these gains. As consolidation rates rise, commuters can expect further enhancements in service reliability and traffic management, contributing to a more efficient and sustainable public transport system in the area.
