The Constitutionality of the Jeepney Modernization Program

On June 19, 2017, the DOTr issued Department Order No. 2017-011 or the Public Utility
Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP). It aims for a restructured, modern, well-managed
and environmentally sustainable transport sector where drivers and operators have stable,
sufficient, and dignified livelihoods while commuters get to their destinations quickly, safely,
and comfortably.

Under the Constitution of the Philippines, the Executive has the power to implement and
enforce the law. To attain this easily, the Executive Branch has its own agencies or departments
that are created to develop, enforce, and oversee the rules and regulations of a law. The
Department of Transportation handles the implementation of rules and regulations in the
transportation system.

The constitutionality of the implementation of PUVMP cannot be questioned. It is within

the function of the Executive Branch. The program is merely a regulation of a dependable and
coordinated network of transportation system. PUVMP aims to has to improve the current
transportation system. The DOTr has manifested the decentralization envisioned by Republic Act
7160 or the Local Government Code of the Philippines.

Aside from that, under the Section 5(d) of Executive Order No. 125, the Department of
Transportation has the power to administer and enforce rules and regulations in the field of
transportation and communications. Meaning that the DOTr has the power to regulate the
transportation sector of the nation.

Furthermore, there is no violation of usurpation of legislative power. The Constitution

mandates the President to ensure that the laws are faithfully executed. There are existing laws
that mandates the state to implement programs that will improve the public service. Improving
the transportation sector will result to better convenience for the pubic.

The modernization program is a manifestation of the powers vested by the Executive

Department and by laws enacted for better public service. It is possible to enact a law in the
future to implement a stricter enforcement of the regulations of the department. But right now,
the constitutionality of the said program cannot be questioned as it is merely a regulation in the
transportation sector and within the scope of the powers of the Executive Department.

SUBMITTED BY:

ECHALAR, MARC ARNOLD

2020110121

COLLEGE OF LAW - SSCR