Senatorial hopeful Luke Espiritu is urging young Filipinos to make their votes count by choosing leaders who champion public welfare over personal gain. Speaking before students at Palawan Polytechnic College Inc., Espiritu emphasized the importance of standing against political dynasties, which he claims have long prioritized self-interest, leading to poverty, unjust labor practices, and displaced communities.
He stressed in a GMA News Online report that true democracy hinges on the people’s freedom to elect leaders who reflect the nation’s needs—not just those with powerful family names.
Meanwhile, fellow senatorial aspirant Mody Floranda called on the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to focus on building a homegrown public transport industry. Floranda, who also heads PISTON, criticized the modernization program for benefitting foreign corporations rather than uplifting local drivers and businesses.
He argued that the shift to imported modern mini buses, mostly from countries like China, Japan, and the U.S., does little to improve the local economy. Instead, he suggested that the government invest in Filipino-made solutions.
The DOTr, responding to feedback on the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), said it is open to changes and is set to present alternative solutions soon. The current program requires replacing traditional jeepneys with expensive Euro-4 compliant vehicles, a move critics say is financially burdensome for local drivers.
