Truck Maker JMC Philippines Ventures Into Jeepney Manufacturing

JMC Philippines, popular makers of refrigerated vans, aluminum vans, and other light trucks, unveiled on Friday, July 13, a prototype of its modern public utility jeepney at the Philippines Bus and Trucks 2018 Exhibition at the SMX convention Center in Pasay, Metro Manila.

"We just launched it now and it is ready for mass production," said JMC Philippines President Kris Lyndon Go. "This is JMC’s answer to the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP)."

The JMC modern jeepney houses a Euro-4 compliant engine, can carry up to 30 passengers, and is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Set to cost at PHP1.4 million per unit, production of the JMC jeepney will remain minimal until demand increases.

"We are in collaboration with different local body makers. So once we see an increase in demand, we can increase production," Go added.

JMC is banking on the looming phaseout of decrepit passenger jeepneys that are 15 years and older. Owners and franchisers of such jeepneys must replace their units with environmentally-friendly and fuel-efficient units that can accommodate more passengers and an exit door on the side instead of at the back.

All jeepneys are expected to be modernized by 2020.