Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni "Banoy" Lopez on Wednesday ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to accelerate the processing of applications under the government’s Net Service Contracting Program to immediately assist commuters.

Speaking during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay interview on Wednesday, April 15, Lopez emphasized that applicants should be onboarded within a day once requirements are complete.

“Dapat within 24 hours, the moment na they submitted complete documents, on-boarded na sila so that they can start the program at least for the benefit of the commuters,” he said.

As of April 15, the DOTr reported that 574 public utility vehicle (PUV) operators nationwide have already joined the program, covering multiple routes including Metro Manila and nearby provinces such as Rizal, Laguna, and Cavite, with additional operations expanding to areas like Dagupan, PITX to Divisoria, and Baclaran routes.

Lopez acknowledged that not all routes are currently covered, citing budget limitations, but noted that the program is expected to benefit around 15 million passengers. He stressed the need for expanded funding to widen its reach.

The transport chief also called on local government units (LGUs) to implement their own service contracting initiatives to support smaller routes and sustain PUV operations amid rising fuel costs.

“Hindi po natin mako-cover lahat… we need the help of LGUs… sana may sarili rin silang service contracting program,” he said, noting that local efforts such as free ride initiatives help fill gaps in the national program.

The DOTr continues to push for broader collaboration to stabilize public transport services as the oil crisis impacts drivers and commuters nationwide.