Lawmaker calls for gradual phaseout of fuel-fed PUVs By Charlie V. Manalo 07/21/2011

Lawmaker calls for gradual phaseout of fuel-fed PUVs

By Charlie V. Manalo 07/21/2011
The government should now start considering a gradual phaseout program on the use of gas and diesel for its public transport system such as buses, jeepneys and tricycles by re-fitting them with natural gas converters or completely replacing them with electric vehicles.

Western Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento said this will not only help in dramatically reducing the country’s carbon emission problem, especially in the National Capital Region and other highly urbanized areas but it will also provide a long-term solution to endless increase in fuel prices.

Sarmiento’s proposal coincided with the view of Iloilo Rep. Jerry Trenas that there is a need for the government to extend a wide-range of incentives to companies and individuals involved in the advancement of green technology in the country.

Trenas said to ensure the country’s swift and unrestricted transition from a fossil fuel-based economy to the full use of green technology, the government should study the possibility of giving additional tax incentives and other forms of financial relief to companies and individuals involved in the importation, manufacturing, assembly and the research and development of green-technology related commodities.... MORE

Source:  The Daily Tribune

URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/metro/20110721met2.html