Twenty-three units of modernized public utility jeepneys (PUJs) are ready to ply the Laoag-Bacarra-Pasuquin route following its launch on Thursday at the Laoag International Airport.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board officials graced the event and turned over the units to the 47 members of the Laoag Bacarra Pasuquin Transport Group (LBPTG).

“This is timely and beneficial for us drivers and commuters because social distancing is a must,” Neptalin Dumlao, corporate secretary of the LBPTG, said in an interview.

Funded by Land Bank of the Philippines, the PHP25-million loan for the 23 units of modern vehicles will be payable in seven years.

Metro Ilocos Norte Council consultant Cipriano Martinez said LBPTG is just one of several groups of drivers and operators associations in the province that embrace the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program of the national government.

“The future of transport is here,” Laoag City Mayor Michael Keon said during the launch.

Early this year, modern PUJs started serving Laoag-Batac-Paoay route passengers. (PNA)