DOTr Deploys More Modernized Public Utility Jeepneys

It seems like there's no stopping with the deployment of modernized public utility jeepneys as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) deployed around 150 more units yesterday, June 20, at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.

The DOTr led the Pasada Tungo sa Maunlad na Bansa where the modern PUVs were made available for dispatch to operators with franchises validated by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

According to DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade, the event, which aims to provide a safe, comfortable, efficient and environment-friendly public transport to Filipinos, is proof that, despite all the hardships, what the Duterte administration promises, it delivers.

"What we are doing today is a testament that we remain true to our promise of making the Filipino lives comfortable. Simbolo ito na kung ano ho ang ipinangako ng Pangulong Duterte sa mga Pilipino, natutupad hindi lamang sa salita kundi sa gawa. Napakatalagal na ho itong pangarap ng mga commuters. Ngayon ho binibigyan natin ng katuparan ang pangarap na 'yon, (This is a symbol of what President Duterte promises to the Filipino, it is granted not just with words but with action. Our commuters have been wishing for this for a long time. Now, we make that wish come true)" Tugade said.

DOTr Assistant Secretary Mark de Leon noted that without the support of transport cooperatives, there would be no Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

"It's so easy to craft an Omnibus Franchising Guidelines; you just need good writers for that. But with the implementation, we need the help of transport cooperatives," he said.

He also added that without the manufacturers, the program would not advance.

"It's your choice to be part of the solution. It's our only chance na mabago ang transportasyon. To the manufacturers, gumawa pa tayo ng mas maraming sasakyan para ang presyo ay bumaba, (It's our only chance to change public transportation. To the manufacturers, let's make more vehicles to bring down its cost)" De Leon said.

The modern jeepney conforms to the existing environmental and product standards set by the Bureau of Standards. It has side doors instead of rear doors, and a higher ceiling that allows for standing passengers, which translates to a higher carrying capacity. Emergency exits are mandated and some units will have provisions for disabled passengers, coupled with WiFi, GPS, CCTVs, dash camera, speed limiter, and automatic fare collection system.

As compliance to the Clean Air Act of 1999, the modern jeepney will either have a Euro-4 compliant emission system or an electric-powered motor that will generate less pollution or none at all.

The DOTr, under the leadership of Tugade, plans to replace all public utility vehicles aged 15 years or older under the PUVMP. Secretary Tugade is urging operators and drivers to be open to change and embrace the PUV modernization, and assured that there are affordable financing schemes available to help them pay for the cost of the modern jeepneys. The financing rates have a "5-6-7-80,000" formula, which stands for an easy down payment, very low interest rates, payability in seven years, and PHP80, 000 government subsidy.

Class 1, 2, and 3 jeepneys are already available for dispatch to transport operators and drivers. Class 1 will have 9 to 22 passenger capacity including the driver; Class 2 will carry 22 passengers and will allow for standing passengers; Class 3 will likewise have 22 passengers and above plus driver, but will be all seated.

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