PC101
PC101
PC101
GOVERNMENT SIDE
The PUV Modernization program is a government initiative designed to streamline
and organize the country’s public road transportation system. Launched in June
2017, the program seeks provide safer, more efficient and more heavily regulated
means of transport for the riding public. Though commonly associated with jeepneys,
the PUVMP actually covers all modes of road-going 4 to 6-wheeled passenger
transport.
The program involves several phases: from phasing out old vehicles that are no
longer road worthy and emissions compliant; to scrutinizing and reorganizing routes,
franchises, and roles of the vehicles involved; to introducing new systems and
standards for vehicles that will serve the public. It is hoped to be implemented
nationwide by 2020.
This can be detrimental not just to the environment but also to the health of
the public. Under the program, the proposed vehicles are powered by either
Euro 4 engine or electric engine with solar panels on the roof.
Aside from the essentials, these e-jeeps also come with GPS navigation
system, a CCTV camera, dashboard camera, and even a Wi-Fi connection.
These may just be the icing on the cake, but they can make a world of
difference in improving the quality of commuting for passengers.
3. Traffic Solution
- According to the study conducted in 2016 by Japan International Cooperation
Agency (JICA), traffic in the Philippines cost ₱2.4 billion daily to the economy
and by 2030 it will peak at ₱6 billion daily if left unsolved.
With the government having full control of the PUV routes, it will be easier to
decongest roads and plan routes that will minimize traffic conditions in highly
saturated areas.
The routes will be planned by the government. Single unit operators will
no longer be eligible for a franchise. Initially, the minimum number of jeepneys for
franchise is 20. By 2019, the minimum number will be raised to 40. There will be
a standardized income for jeepney drivers. They will also be provided with
regular employment benefits and abolish boundary system.
The government has also imposed a set of guidelines for all vehicles to
meet before getting approved to operate. In order to uphold safety, comfort, and
environmental soundness, all vehicles and services will comply with the national
standards and international vehicle safety conventions. Depending on the type of
PUV, there are various specifications that they must meet as imposed
by Department of Transportation’s Omnibus Guidelines.
OPPOSITION SIDE
Operators, drivers, and some sectors have described the jeepney modernization bill as
anti-poor. Modern units are expensive. Even if the Land Bank of the Philippines will
provide loans and the government has committed added assistance, the cost of new
jeepneys is still way beyond the financial capacity of many operators and drivers.
Landbank of the Philippines will provide loans to help operators with the
acquisition
Due to this, many operators might go out of business. When this happens, private
companies may take over jeepney operations. Fare prices may increase and
commuters will suffer more. Currently, there is on-going Jeepney modernization debate
among all concerned and pilot-testing will be conducted to assess the program.
The cost of a modern jeepney that is Euro 4- and PNS- (Philippine National Standards)
compliant is estimated at P2 million per unit. Stakeholders have said they are finding a
way to reduce the amount.
In 2018, the first Euro 4 Jeepney was introduced in the country by Isuzu Philippines.
Fifteen prototype units were turned over to the Senate and the units have been tested
on the roads of Baguio City.
Foton Philippines also introduced units for the jeepney phase out Philippines program.
Its model has a maximum passenger capacity of 24, where 16 people can sit and eight
can stand.
All models from these manufacturers are equipped with energy-saving motors, great
entertainment systems, CCTV, and GPS, among others.