#puvmp

[techno2025]

Modern jeepneys with traditional designs at Araneta Center Jeepney Terminal

Iconic jeepney on steroids

[mariellaolden]

NO TO JEEPNEY PHASEOUT !!!!!!

SAY HELLO TO A WORSENED TRANSPORT CRISIS BY 2024

By: Mariella Angela H. Olden (December 28, 2023 | 9:25 PM)

Following a meeting with transportation officials, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on December 12 that no further extensions for consolidation of public utility vehicles (PUV) shall be granted.

One of the cultural markers of Philippine identity is the jeepney. Jeepneys have been the primary mode of transportation for Filipinos due to its affordability and accessibility, particularly for students and workers. Furthermore, it has traditionally been the primary occupation of drivers and operators.

In June 2017, the government established the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), intending to replace and eventually phase out traditional jeepneys to improve public transportation. However, with the impending phaseout of jeepneys by December 31, 2023, drivers and operators will be forced to purchase costly modern vehicles supported by the government.

Data from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) indicates that five days before the consolidation deadline, 31,058 traditional jeepneys, or 73.5% of them in Metro Manila, have yet to be consolidated. These unconsolidated units are highly not a minority.

Why should drivers, operators, commuters, and workers fight back? Among the many effects of the PUVMP is the increase in the minimum fare that will continue to make Filipinos suffer. The PUV Modernization program is a business. Corporations and large businesses will take over and have the advantage of raising fares to pay for expensive "modern jeeps." In contrast, this is a big disadvantage to the families of the drivers and operators, who will sink into debt due to the burden of the monthly payment of the modernized vehicle.

In addition, the Department of Energy and LTFRB has reported that the number of registered vehicles in the Philippines exceeds 9 million. Just over 250,000, equivalent to 2% of jeepneys, make up the total.

More detrimental effects of this program include the modern jeepney being way more expensive than the traditional jeepney. The price of a typical jeepney ranges from P150,000 to P250,000. The cost of operating a modern e-jeepney will rise by 1,766.7% to P2.8 million for drivers and operators. Although P160,000 will be given as a subsidy according to LTFRB, which amounts to a mere 5.7% of the jeepney's entire cost, jeepney drivers will be forced to make at least more earnings each day to be able to settle their loan if they were to switch to the modern jeepney.

By the year 2024, the mass transport crisis in the country will worsen. The government cannot fill such a large and significant gap in public transport in the country. With the influx of imported cars, many local manufacturers and industries will be affected.

The PUVMP program is forcefully erasing one of the main parts of our identity as Filipinos and only in favor of a few rich and foreign interests, making the Filipino masses suffer, further impoverished, and left behind.

Drivers, operators, commuters, and workers—

Unite and fight for #NoToJeepneyPhaseout #NoToPUVPhaseout #NoToPUVModernizationProgram!

[upismediacenter]

OPINION: STOP THE E-JEEP! #NoToJeepneyPhaseout

Commuter or not, every Filipino is familiar with jeepneys. Once dubbed “King of the Roads”, jeepneys are a symbol of Philippine culture and resourcefulness, as they were made from converted jeeps left by American troops after World War II. As the most popular public transport vehicle in our country for decades, these jeepneys are now at risk of disappearing, causing public uproar.

The controversy surrounding the phasing out of jeepneys first sparked in 2017 when the government launched the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP). The program’s goal is to replace the old model jeepneys with modern electronic jeepneys (e-jeeps) that are claimed to guarantee cleaner emissions and improved safety. This has been met with several worries that could adversely affect the Filipino populace.

Public unrest over the jeepney phaseout has been going on for years. The consolidation deadline for Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) which included jeepneys, UV Expresses, and Filcab units was extended three times. The first was due to the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple protests from transport groups, which affected the government’s original plan to consolidate PUVs in March 2020. As a result, it was rescheduled at the end of last year, December 31, 2023. The second extension was on January 31, 2024, to allow unconsolidated PUVs to ply their routes with the stipulation of being barred from joining cooperatives and corporations. The third and “final” deadline was on April 30, 2024—three months after the last deadline—to allow driver-operators one last time to consolidate, or else they would not be allowed to ply their routes. Amid these several deadlines, protests and strikes are unwavering as dissents push for the PUVMP to be suspended, arguing that imposing deadline extensions does not address the structural problems of the modernization program.

One day before the “final” deadline, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) declared that unconsolidated jeepneys have a 15-day leeway to continue their usual routes before they are impounded. Again, this is another smokescreen from the systemic issues brought by the modernization program. The PUVMP must be suspended, as it ostensibly presents more problems than solutions. If the PUVMP truly is for the people, why is there a persistent and contentious pushback by the public?

Enforcing deadlines and giving grace periods for jeepney drivers only delays—the government must suspend the PUVMP and reevaluate its effectiveness. Displacing and disenfranchising jeepney drivers from their livelihoods defeats the purpose of an inclusive and sustainable program as the PUVMP endorses itself to be.

Who are those affected?

Jeepney drivers are most affected by the modernization program. If they choose not to consolidate with cooperatives and corporations or cannot afford an e-jeep alone, their vehicles will be impounded, taking away their only source of income. Additionally, commuters, UP Diliman constituents, and other sectors also have to bear the cost of the PUVMP due to the policies and funds allocated to this program.

The transport group for jeepney drivers, Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide, more commonly known as PISTON, is the leading opposition group against the PUVMP. First established in 1981, PISTON serves as an organization that aims to promote the welfare and democratic rights of jeepney drivers. In 2013, they launched a campaign against the oil price hike, directed at the country’s main petroleum companies, namely Petron, Shell, and Chevron. Since the government has revealed plans to phase out jeepneys over 15 years old, they have been organizing protests against the PUVMP, criticizing its anti-poor policies and prioritizing for-profit corporate consolidation.

The PUVMP pressures jeepney drivers to switch to e-jeeps or new combustion engine vehicles that meet Euro IV emission standards which only permit carbon monoxide (CO) emissions of 1.0g/km for gasoline and 0.5g/km for diesel vehicles. Units and parts that make up the e-jeep are imported from other countries, which is why they are priced as high as PHP 3 million. While the modernization program offers subsidies of PHP 160 thousand through loan programs by the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) to help offset the costs, this amount is only 5.7% of the total cost of a modern jeepney. Jeepney drivers state that they will need to make around PHP 3.5 thousand each day to pay off the debt from switching to an e-jeep, but at the moment, they only make around PHP 2 thousand a day.

The large amount of money that needs to be spent transitioning to modern e-jeeps is the main concern of dissent to this program. Replacing a huge fleet of jeepneys requires massive resources, taking away from vital sectors such as education and healthcare. Additionally, the PUVMP disproportionately affects low-income citizens—specifically, jeepney drivers who mostly come from low-income families and struggle to meet the high e-jeep cost. The debt burden forces them to work longer hours just to break even, negatively impacting their livelihood. Jeepney drivers worry that the transition to e-jeeps or new combustion engine vehicles will exacerbate their financial burdens and force them to work longer hours just to break even.

Furthermore, units from local manufacturing companies such as eFrancisco Motor Corporation and Sarao Jeepneys are still priced at around PHP 2.5 million, further putting jeepney drivers at odds with the financial burden of the PUVMP. With large corporations dominating the market and the PUVMP’s policy to consolidate driver-operators to cooperative-led fleets, this raises concerns of corporate takeover and the economic marginalization of jeepney drivers. Since large companies are the ones who have the capacity to fully adhere to the program, jeepney drivers are left disenfranchised because of their financial disadvantage.

Commuters are also affected heavily by this program. Modern jeeps usually charge higher fares because, aside from the initial cost of modernization, their maintenance and repair costs are higher than the traditional jeepneys’. This adds more financial problems to Filipinos already facing higher living expenses as a result of inflation rates. Moreover, unfamiliar technology could present a significant challenge for traditional drivers transitioning to modern jeepneys, leading to potential operational difficulties and increased maintenance expenses.

Constituents of UP Diliman (UPD) share similar concerns. The UP Transport Group (UPTG), which consists of jeepney drivers from all routes around the campus such as Ikot, Toki, UP-Pantranco, UP-Philcoa, and UP-Katipunan, organized a silent strike on December 13, 2023, in protest of the earlier December 31 deadline. Based on interviews with the UPD Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Roehl Jamon, UP jeepney drivers may have to comply with the modernization. According to Jamon, the only two options they have are for the university to pay for the units themselves, which cost about PHP 1.4 to 3 million each, or for the university to partner with transport cooperatives that already own modernized units and invite them to service the campus, which is the less expensive option between the two. Although the latter is cheaper, this still gives way for corporations to take advantage of the modernization program.

Jeepneys are extensively used by UP college students and students of UP Integrated School (UPIS) for commuting to and from the university campus because they charge less than other PUVs. However, these fares could be completely changed by the PUVMP’s effect on jeepney availability and rates, possibly altering their daily commutes by making them spend more on transport alternatives or by forcing them to look for different routes. This might put additional financial burden as well as longer hours of travel in their everyday life, affecting not only their academic performance but also their general welfare.

Moreover, the PUVMP is taking attention and funding from other sectors that have more pressing needs. In particular, the Department of Education (DepEd) is significantly impacted by lack of funding. Classroom and teacher shortages have been notable areas of concern with an estimated 165,444 classrooms and nearly 90,000 teachers needed. According to DepEd, PHP 105 billion would be needed each year up until 2030 to address the classroom shortage, while PHP 5.6 billion would be needed to hire 20,000 teachers in the upcoming school year, as discussed in the Senate plenary deliberations on the proposed 2024 national budget. Aside from the education sector, the Department of Health (DOH) has been grappling with vaccine shortages, namely pertussis, which has led to 54 infant deaths since the beginning of the year. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in 2022, the Philippines was among the top 5 contributors to the 18 million zero-dose children in the world. Despite this and multiple warnings from health authorities, the Philippines still hasn’t fully addressed this vaccine gap, leaving one million unvaccinated Filipino children vulnerable and susceptible to life-threatening diseases such as polio, measles, and tuberculosis. In light of these issues, resources should be prioritized in these matters instead of the PUVMP. Action must be taken immediately to address these pressing concerns and ensure the well-being of the Filipino people.

Are E-jeeps really the “better option”?

According to a study by the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED), jeepneys only make up about 2% of the total registered vehicles in the nation and PUVs only contribute about 15% of the total particulate matter emissions in Metro Manila. If the PUVMP aims to transform our public transportation into becoming more sustainable and environmentally friendly, this number does not justify the relentless pressure on jeepney drivers to consolidate. The PUVMP will only contribute 2% to the country’s vehicles that cause pollution. This raises the question of the significance of its impact on saving the environment and reducing emissions in the long run. Additionally, modern jeepneys still run on fossil fuels, such as petroleum oil, defeating the purpose of the program’s goal of creating a more environmentally friendly public transport system. In the same study by CEED, it was argued that solely focusing modernization efforts on jeepneys to reduce air pollution would be negligible. Taking this into account, the government should instead consider upgrading traditional jeepneys to meet the proposed emission standards which would be cheaper for the program.

Furthermore, as said in a paper by the UP Center for Integrative and Developmental Studies, drawing from the current rate of assembly of modern jeepneys, it will take an estimated 270 years before all traditional jeepneys in the country are replaced. This begs the question of why the government keeps enforcing deadlines when it will take almost three centuries before all jeepneys are replaced with e-jeeps.

The PUVMP, while well-intentioned, presents a flawed solution. The environmental costs being too high, the unjust burden on the poor, and the uncertain consequences of such a drastic transition are strong arguments for reconsideration. The government should consider other options like rehabilitating existing jeepneys and using cleaner-burning fuels. One example that can be improved with the government’s help is the rehabilitated jeepney proposed by the Libmanan Transport Service Cooperative (LIBTRASCO). This model includes all government-specified features of the modernized jeepney—such as a side door, a higher ceiling, bigger windows, and even stabilizers to account for the increased height. Compared to e-jeeps, these rehabilitated models only cost around PHP 400 thousand to PHP 500 thousand, making them more affordable for jeepney drivers. Though the rehabilitated jeepney still uses the jeepney’s diesel engine, it can still be adapted to use a Euro 4 engine and even include air conditioning. If the government chooses to work with LIBTRASCO and retrofit the rehabilitated jeepney as an alternative, the Philippines can then improve its transport system while keeping its traditional jeepneys and people’s livelihoods by prioritizing affordability, inclusiveness, and a sustainable future.

Modernization shouldn’t be at the expense of the workers. The primary reason why many are aggressively opposing the program is that the welfare of jeepney drivers was not carefully considered when they should be the center of the solution. For the past years that the modernization program has been implemented, instead of listening to the pleas and concerns of jeepney drivers, commuters, and other constituents, the government has kept imposing the jeepney consolidation and resisting any demands by the public.

Taking all of this into account, we must request the government to prioritize policies that consider the money and power of all citizens, especially those from poor backgrounds. This includes subsidizing the move towards modern vehicles or examining other options that do not oppress marginalized communities. Instead of pushing jeepney drivers to consolidate and buy e-jeeps, the government should consider exploring and supporting initiatives that use cleaner-burning fuels and retrofitting existing jeepneys to meet emission standards to help maintain the environment in its sustainable state without overhauling the iconic jeepney fleet.

Above all else, this transition must be led by the workers—jeepney drivers whom the public has relied on for decades. Development must be made with the public in mind, not without.

// by Kela Alcantara & Xia Mentes

References:

Abarca, C. (2024, March 21). Calabarzon, Metro Manila top classroom shortage list – DepEd. INQUIRER.net. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1921036/fwd-on-public-classroom-shortage#:~:text=The%20estimated%20total%20number%20of,country’s%20classroom%20shortage%20by%202030

Ansis, JC (December 14, 2015). "Piston: Continuing to fight for the transport sector". CNN Philippines. https://web.archive.org/web/20190131083905/http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2015/12/14/piston-protests-continuing-to-fight-for-transport-sector.html

Bautista, P., Moya, R. (2023, September 3). Jeepney modernization program: Drivers have a steep price to pay. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/09/03/2293549/jeepney-modernization-program-drivers-have-steep-price-pay

CEED Office. (2018, November). Just Transition in the Philippines. CEED. https://ceedphilippines.com/just-transition-in-the-philippines/

Conde, M. (2019, November 16). Transport coop makes pitch for ‘affordable, safe’ rehabilitated jeepney. RAPPLER. https://www.rappler.com/nation/244909-camarines-sur-transport-cooperative-rehabilitated-jeepney/

Dimalanta, R. Atienza, J. Samonte E. (2023). Putting Transport Workers and Commuters First: The Route to Just Transition in Public Transport Modernization. UP CIDS Policy Brief. ISSN 2619-7286.

Gatarin, G. (2024), Modernising the ‘king of the road’: Pathways for just transitions for the Filipino jeepney. Urban Governance. 4(1). 37-46. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ugj.2023.11.002

Golez, P. (2024, January 24). Marcos extends jeepney consolidation deadline til April 30. POLITIKO. https://politiko.com.ph/2024/01/24/marcos-extends-jeepney-consolidation-deadline-til-april-30/daily-feed/

Latoza, G. (2023, December 15). What are UP’s plans for commuters amid PUVMP? Tinig ng Plaridel. https://www.tinigngplaridel.net/up-transport-puvmp/

Magramo, K. (2024, January 16). Philippines jeepneys: Will the loud, colorful vehicles soon disappear from the roads?. CNN. https://edition.cnn.com/2024/01/16/asia/philippines-jeepney-phase-out-strikes-intl-hnk/index.html

Mendoza, T. C. (2021, February). Addressing the “blind side” of the government’s jeepney “modernization” program. University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Developmental Studies. 1-69. ISSN 2619-7456.

Mondoñedo-Ynot, L. (2024, April 10). April 30 is final deadline for Puv Consolidation. SunStar Publishing Inc. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/april-30-is-final-deadline-for-puv-consolidation

Ombay, G. (2023, November 9). DepEd lacks nearly 90,000 teachers - Pia Cayetano. GMA News Online. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/887851/deped-lacks-nearly-90-000-teachers-pia-cayetano/story/

Pabustan, D. (2017, September 21). Euro 4, what does it mean and why do we need it?. AutoDeal.https://www.autodeal.com.ph/articles/car-features/euro-4-what-does-it-mean-and-why-do-we-need-it

Philippine Daily Inquirer. (2024, April 14). DOH’s Lack of Vaccine Urgency. INQUIRER.net. https://opinion.inquirer.net/172935/dohs-lack-of-vaccine-urgency

Presidential Communications Office. (2024, January 24). PBBM approves three-month extension of PUV Consolidation. https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/pbbm-approves-three-month-extension-of-puv-consolidation/

RAC. (n.d.). Euro 1 to Euro 6 guide – find out your vehicle’s emissions standard. https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/emissions/euro-emissions-standards/

Relativo, J. (2023, December 28). Unconsolidated jeepneys, UV Express “allowed to operate” until Jan. 31, 2024. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/12/28/2321963/unconsolidated-jeepneys-uv-express-allowed-operate-until-jan-31-2024

Relativo, J. (2024, April 30). Unconsolidated jeepneys given “15-day leeway” after consolidation deadline. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/04/30/2351543/unconsolidated-jeepneys-given-15-day-leeway-after-consolidation-deadline

Reyes, R. O. (2024, January 29). Jeepney drivers rejoice “partial victory” for phaseout extension. SunStar Publishing Inc. https://www.sunstar.com.ph/tacloban/jeepney-drivers-rejoice-partial-victory-for-phaseout-extension#:~:text=approved%20the%20extension%20for%20franchise

Rivas, R. (2023, March 7). In numbers: Why jeepney phaseout is anti-poor, will do little for environment. RAPPLER. https://www.rappler.com/business/numbers-why-government-phaseout-jeepneys-anti-poor-do-little-environment/

Santos, J. (2024, February 7). Consolidation extension is not what the protest demands. Philippine Collegian.https://phkule.org/article/1106/consolidation-extension-is-not-what-the-protest-demands

[pannaginip]

ABS-CBN on Twitter @ABSCBNNews:

JUST IN: PISTON, Manibela and other groups will hold a series of nationwide transport strikes starting this Monday, April 15.

They said this will be massive, with pickets and caravans lasting up until April 30, the deadline for consolidation.

via Jervis Manahan

2024 Apr. 11

ABS-CBN: Marcos says April 30 deadline for PUV consolidation is final

The PUVMP was launched in 2017 to improve the country's chaotic public transport system. But it has been repeatedly delayed due to protests and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jeepney operators are required to join a cooperative, which would have two to three years to replace their fleet with modern vehicles that are safer and less polluting.

But drivers opposed to the phaseout argue that joining a cooperative and buying a new vehicle will bury them in debt and they will not be able to earn enough money to survive.

Under the new scheme, drivers will be required to work a fixed schedule, instead of the current system, which allows them to work for as long, and often, as they want.

(One of the biggest problems is colorum operation and there are so many of them - I didn't expect that 30 percent of those plying their routes are colorum. So, I will now forward the problem to the DILG Secretary because the police will enforce that and make sure that the franchise is correct, all your groups and other transport groups are included in the cooperative, TODAs all recognize those who will operate.) [Marcos said.]

According to Mar Valbuena, president of transport group Manibela, they will be holding another transport strike before the end of the month.

He also lamented that their group was excluded from Wednesday’s town hall meeting, which showed to them that the government is not interested in listening to their side.

Valbuena said Manibela and other groups allied with them will be holding a press conference on Thursday.

Jeepneys -- initially made from leftover US jeeps after World War II -- are a national symbol in the Philippines, and serve as the backbone of the country's transport system.

They provide rides for millions of people across the country for as little as P13.

2024 Apr. 10

[ennio31]

A Scapegoat Implementation

As we all know, a jeepney driver’s fare for a day is barely enough. Daily earnings are erratic concerning traffic and other factors. This reality contradicts the LTFRB’s daydreamed goals. I find it hard to believe that these poor drivers come up with 1-2 Million pesos to afford a foreign public utility vehicle (PUV) without falling into debt. I see it as very impractical, unrealistic, and far-fetched.

Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) is first established as a means to address problems in transportation and the unstable availability of PUVs. Yes, there are outdated and obsolete jeepneys, but I hardly think eradicating all of these jeepneys is the solution.

What I observed is a lack of a system in the routing system. Jeep stops are erratic, and therefore so will their availability and schedule. The unpredictable transport system is one of the reasons for the programs’ creation. I think the government needs to stop scapegoating the problem on the jeep’s reliability alone, and rather create a trustworthy system of routing to be implemented within jeepney associations. And another popular solution coming up is upgrading the traditional jeepneys with modern and appealing designs, but retaining the traditional and very Filipino image and at a lower cost.

No jeepney driver has to fall into debt and their radical response with a strike is completely understandable, but rather the government on the other hand lacks any reasonable response. I think they need to analyze more rather than blankly implement.

[nash-reports]

Citizen Journalism: Midterms Output | BA Journalism 2A (22-23)

Malolos jeepney barker, drivers detest PUV modernization program

#NoToJeepneyPhaseOut continues to be the unyielding stand of both jeepney barkers and drivers of Malolos Central Transport Terminal after the previous nationwide transport strikes caused by the contentious Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) of the administration.

Beside Xentro Mall Malolos sits the Malolos Central Transport Terminal that holds public utility vehicles (PUVs), particularly traditional jeepneys, with both roundtrip and one-way trips to neighboring and distant places alike, such as Plaridel, Guiguinto, Marilao, and Santa Maria, among others.

Mang Renato, a jeepney barker for 21 years and a father of six, said that he won’t necessarily be affected by the jeepney modernization. But he makes clear that he sympathizes with traditional jeepney drivers, who will not be able to afford the modernized ones.

"Sana hindi na matuloy yung mga phase out na yan, kawawa yung mga operator", he expressed. "Paano kung walang pera yung mga operator… paano yung mga drayber. Syempre kung walang pera, wala silang dyip na modern", he continued.

Although his livelihood will not be directly affected by the modernization, he stressed out: "Wala naman ding pinagkukunan ‘yan [mga drayber], syempre masakit din sa kanila yan." To add to his sentiment, he said that there were kind drivers who were willing to give him extra income whenever their jeepneys would be full of passengers, thereby adding to his disapproval of the government’s plan.

Mang JR, a traditional jeepney driver for two decades, also strongly expressed his disfavor for jeepney modernization: "Syempre nakasanayan na namin itong gamitin, tsaka dito ‘di masyadong ano… kapag binyahe na namin, sa amin na kita. Eh kapag sa modern babayaran mo sa gobyerno."

He further explained that the government is basically phasing out their jeepneys and leaving them in immeasurable debt, which they cannot afford to pay. "Pabigat talaga samin talaga", he said.

"Napag-aral ko yung mga anak ko… yung pang-araw-araw namin hanggang sa bahay, kuryente [at] tubig, dito kami kumukuha", he added, emphasizing the importance of his job for his family to stay afloat.

As for his opinion about why the government is pushing PUV modernization in the country, he thinks they are trying to raise the standard of the Philippines’ public transport on par with Hong Kong’s minibuses, vehicles used to reach places standard buses cannot.

Fiercely pointing out the flaws of the jeepney modernization, "Bunso", also a traditional jeepney driver for almost three decades, said that should the jeepney phaseout be implemented, there will be a great loss to every jeepney driver’s family.

"Maraming epekto, dahil gawa nga ng yung dyip namin imbis na wala kaming utang, magkakautang kami na malaki: milyon. Yung dyip naming pansarili, magkakaroon kami ng amo ngayon", he expressed. 

Among others, what worries him most about such a policy is its effect on the education of their children: "Kahit paano nakakapagpa-aral kami. Ngayon, ‘pag dumating yang modern na yan, baka hindi na kami makapagpa-aral kahit kinder."

He also cannot help but feel bad for fellow drivers who switched to modernized jeepneys because he is certain they are in debt with millions of pesos. "Malaki hulog doon sa modern... tatlong milyon ‘yon", he said.

Asked if he would ever be in favor of the jeepney modernization program, "Kahit kailan, hindi.", he ended.

The sentiments of Mang Renato, Mang JR, and Bunso were only among the many from the transport sector who will be directly affected by the controversial PUV modernization program that most of them believe to be "anti-poor."

The PUVMP was issued way back in 2017 under DOTr Department Order No. 2017-011, also known as the Omnibus Guidelines on the Planning and Identification of Public Road Transportation Services and Franchise Issuance, during the Duterte administration. Its importance was restated by Transportation Secretary Jamie Bautista under the Marcos administration, with the same aim to provide the Filipinos with a safe and environmentally sustainable transportation system despite the expensive transition that would leave most jeepney drivers behind. | via Andrea Apit, Caryl Flores, Athena Morales, & Nash Villena, BA Journalism 2A

#NOTOJEEPNEYPHASEOUT: Short Documentary #NOTOJEEPNEYPHASEOUT: Short Documentary #NOTOJEEPNEYPHASEOUT: Short Documentary

[rianmel-honeycave]

My opinion on the "Jeepney phase-out"

The phase-out of jeepneys is one instance of modernization underway in the Philippines. This phase-out has some advantages and disadvantages.

As many of us Filipinos are aware, the jeepney is one of the most widely used modes of transportation in the Philippines it can hold up to 18-20 passengers at a time. It has also become a widespread symbol of the Philippines's culture. Thousands of unique jeepneys can be seen throughout the Philippines, each with its own distinctive designs and decorations. 

One of the advantages of riding a jeepney is the cheapness of the fair. Currently, the fair for jeepneys is 12 pesos per person and 10 pesos for students. It is also easy to commute using jeepneys because they can stop anywhere, unlike buses. However, some jeepney drivers are sources of traffic congestion, which can cause inconveniences.

Now, what is the problem with jeepneys? 

Most jeepneys are diesel-powered, which blows white or black smoke, which can cause environmental harm and contributes 15% of the total particulate matter emissions in Metro Manila. In return, this negatively impacts the climate and overall temperature. As a result, some are asking for the phase-out of this form of transportation.

What is the jeepney phase-out?

The "Jeepney Phase-out" is the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), an organization created in 2017 that aims to replace diesel-powered jeepneys with similar electronic vehicles with at least a Euro 4-compliant engine to reduce pollution. The program seeks to provide safer, more efficient, and more strictly regulated means of transportation. 

My opinion on the matter

Of course, I respect the government for trying to find alternative ways to reduce pollution. But how about the drivers and people who depend on these jeepneys as their main mode of transportation?

Since gas prices are skyrocketing, jeepney drivers, are barely making ends meet to feed and support their families.

The PUVs cost a staggering 1.6 million to as much as 3 million pesos. Although these PUVs are much more reliant and efficient than their traditional counterparts, how will these jeepney drivers pay for one?

On average, these jeepney drivers only earn between P2,500 to P3,000 daily, not including the many maintenance fees they would need to pay to maintain a Jeepney. They would need to acquire loans from a bank to purchase one. 

At the very least, the government should provide some sort of financial aid for these jeepney drivers if they at least want to proceed with the modernization of jeepneys.

For the longest time, commuting in the Philippines has always been a headache for most people. From hours of traffic to the disregard for the driver's welfare makes one of the worst commuting experiences.

The Philippines' transportation system has severely outdated equipment, and a lack of proper funding, to properly support the development of the jeepneys.

Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to find ways to reduce these problems without needing to jeopardize the livelihood of these Jeepney drivers.

[hilariohero]

Lunes, Oktubre 16, isang grupo ng mga jeepney driver ang naglunsad ng transport strike sa pakiusap na masuspinde ang pagpapatupad ng Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) at pagpapalawig ng bisa ng kanilang prangkisa. Ito ay naging dahilan kung bakit ang iba’t ibang lalawigan at lungsod maging ilang paaralan sa Cavite ang nagsuspinde ng face-to-face na klase dahil sa gagawing tigil pasada.

Ang programang PUVMP ay naglalayon na i-phase-out ang mga jeepney, bus at iba pang Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) at palitan ang mga ito ng mas ligtas, mas komportable at mas environmentally friendly na mga sasakyan.

Ayon kay Nelson, isang jeepney driver na bumabyahe sa Cavite, “Kaya magkaka-transport strike dahil hindi kami pabor sa modernisasyon ng jeep.” Dagdag pa ni Nelson, “Kapag napatupad ‘yon malaki ang epekto niyan sa pangkabuhayan namin at hindi kaya ng pangkaraniwang operator na mag-avail ng bagong unit.”

Ayon sa gobyerno, ang mga modernong jeepney ay nagkakahalaga ng P1.4 hanggang P1.6 milyon bawat isa. Gayunpaman, kapag nakakuha ng unit sa pamamagitan ng pautang, ang isang sasakyan ay maaring nagkakahalaga ng hanggang P2.8 milyon.

Dahil sa posibleng kawalan ng masasakyan, ilang mga Local Government Unit (LGU) at unibersidad sa Metro Manila at CALABARZON ay nag-anunsyo na walang pasok. Sa lalawigan naman ng Cavite, nagsagawa man ng hintong pasada ang ilang mga jeepney driver, hindi nag-anunsyo ang lokal na pamahalaan ng suspension ng klase ngunit, may mga paaralan at unibersidad ang nagdesiyon na gawing online/modular na muna ang paraan ang kanilang pagtuturo at pagkatuto.

Hindi lang ito ang unang transport strike na naganap na naging dahilan din ng kanselasyon ng klase. Noong July 2023, iba’t ibang transport group din ang nagpakita ng kanilang protesta sa pinaplanong implementasyon ng programang PUVMP.

[regreports]

PUVMP: A ride towards modernization or anti-poor collision

BY: Maria Ellein Abarro, Maria Regine Dayao, Alexandra De Leon, Mikhaela Santiago

King of the road - that’s how jeepneys in the Philippines are hailed as.

With it being the most popular mode of transportation in the country, Filipinos patronize it for convenience, reasonable fares, and a showcase of culture. Its distinct colors and extravagant ornaments makes it stand out from other public utility vehicles (PUVs).

What brought the prominent ride to fruition were the American colonizers who left behind four-seater green jeepneys after World War II.

And in spite of Filipino ingenuity, it was upcycled to resolve the mass transportation crisis.

It was elongated to accommodate more passengers, furnished with a roof for protection against the Philippine heat, and gave birth to terms you’d only hear in a jeepney like “bayad po” or “para po.”

These kings continue to reign the streets, but not for long.

A DETHRONEMENT OF THE KING

The traditional jeep is on the verge of being dethroned due to the government’s public utility vehicle modernization program or PUVMP.

Issued way back in 2017, the program intends to phase out jeepneys of 15 years and older that are diesel-based.

They are to be replaced by modern jeeps, which have its own ruling features that comply with safety and environmental standards.

The Department of Transportation (DoTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista elaborates that modern jeeps back up the convenient, accessible, safe and secure, and affordable program or CASA in the transport sector.

With these advantages, commuters of the terminal hub in Xentro Mall Malolos, agree that it’s time for modern jeeps to rise to rule.

THE COMMUTERS' HURRAH TO CHANGE AND ITS BARE BENEFITS TO THE ENVIRONMENT

59 year old commuter Dong is in favor of the PUVMP due to modern jeeps being better than the traditional ones. 

He said, “Naka-aircon ka na, magaan lang diperensya sa pamasahe, tapos komportable ka pa.”

A sound journey is how Bulacan State University student Trixie concur their support on the program.

They said some traditional jeeps have worn out and perform in an unstable condition. Trixie also insinuated that the temperature gets hot and humid in the jeep.

While safety and comfort are in the hands of the commuters, the environment is yet to speak up for its own well-being.

In their support to the PUVMP, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) imposed the Eco-PUV program, where modern vehicles must comply with the Euro 4 standards.

Former  Undersecretary Tim Orbos of the DoTr said it is to generate less pollution or none.

But a study from the Clean Air Asia and Blacksmith Institute otherwise says that diesel-powered jeepneys make-up 15% of the entire matter emissions in Metro Manila.

It was argued by the Center for Energy, Ecology and Development (CEED) that efforts to reduce air pollution is negligible if it only focused on jeepneys rather than private vehicles and that private car owners are much capable of financing the modernization of their vehicles. In terms of what a modern jeep would cost, it's a conflicting thought for a UV express driver and barker.

A TALE OF A PUV DRIVER AND A BARKER

Having 500 PHP of daily earnings, UV express driver Wayu was dismayed at the 2.8 million priced modern jeeps.

Since it is loaned, they said PUV drivers are to suffer and shoulder the costs.

The program requires franchise holders to consolidate and join cooperatives to afford the new jeepneys, and it would take seven years to fully pay with a monthly deposit of over thirty-thousand pesos per month.

Aside from the financial issues, Wayu asserted that the project would be a major disturbance to many and there are already plenty of traditional jeepneys that operate.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board recorded that there are currently 158 000 traditional jeepneys in the country, while only 5 300 are modern jeepneys.

Pushing through the phaseout would mean commuters to strain harder, considering the current conditions of public transport.

Expressing their thoughts on the situation, Yeng who is a barker for four months, chimed that the traditional jeeps shouldn’t be pulled out. Instead, the count should be increased.

They also asserted that the modern jeeps are to be sourced from China and other countries, which have a contrary design to the iconic Philippine jeeps.

Such as in Bulacan, where PUV service company Chatco uses Hino branded jeeps which originate from Japan.

As the financial struggles and culture crisis come into play, there are other matters that the most affected jeepney drivers have to steer through.

QUANDARY TO THE KING'S RIGHT HAND

For 35 years, Joey has been a PUJ driver who is conformed to his current livelihood.

Firmly opposing the PUVMP, they were proud to show his jeep of 15 years that still worked fine.

They felt that it would be a problem and disappointment to disable operations of a traditional jeep in the near future.

Not only that, they argue over how the program’s requirement to obtain the modern jeeps will be an issue.

In line with this, another PUJ driver was troubling over the new franchising guidelines under the PUVMP.

Senior PUJ driver Victor already has an individual franchise because they own the jeep they drive and the earnings it builds up throughout the day.

The LTFRB announced that each cooperative must have at least 15 franchises and single-unit operators will no longer be allowed on the road, but Victor still diverges on the idea of joining a cooperative.

His main concern being the costs of the modern jeeps, where he barely earns a thousand pesos per day on driving. 

As for the drivers who have the same stand and join the same association, they didn’t join the transport strike against the PUVMP held last March 6 to 11.

It was due to their franchises being revoked if they were to stop operations.

Living on minimum wage, PUV drivers cannot afford to let a day pass as they and their families need it.

As such, Manibela chairperson Mal Valbuena estimated 40 000 PUVS in Metro Manila alone participated. While the LTFRB detected 10% of the PUJ drivers in Manila and 5% jumped on the nationwide strike.

The protests however were cut short as a meeting among transport group leaders and officials from Malacañang occurred.

THE PROPOSAL OF THE PEOPLE

While the program and its guidelines have been controversial, jeepney drivers and commuters offered their own propositions.

On the former part, drivers recommend that old jeeps should be restored and have their parts changed with new ones that are up to the environmental standards.

As jeepney driver Julius had persuaded, these jeeps should be rehabilitated instead. 

The latter implies that the government���s subsidy to the drivers for the modern jeeps should be raised.

As of late, the government is set to provide 5.7% or ₱160000 of the 2.8 million priced modern jeeps. 

Consolidated groups are then left to shoulder most of the expenses, and if through a loan, it would take seven years to fully pay with an annual 6% interest rate.

THE CURRENT RULE ON THE ROAD

Everything boils down to how expensive the modern jeepneys are to PUV drivers.

Drivers, who the government had left out of the discussions, is seen to be another issue.

As mentioned previously, the Malacañang promised to involve them as the guidelines are being renewed further.

As the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines (OFG) or the Department Order No. 2017-011 which covers the PUVMP is under review, the deadline for consolidation is extended until December 31.

Expect further details to come as we go throughout the year.

[techno2025]

Modelo ng modern jeep na hawig sa traditional PUJ ang disenyo, pumapasad...

Modern jeepney.

Iconic jeepney on steroids.

[liberatingjepoy]

Jeepney Phase Out Program is Extended until December 2023

“In compliance with the advice of Sec. Jaime Bautista and the pronouncement of President Bongbong Marcos, we extended the consolidation of jeepneys from June 30 to the end of December 2023,” Guadiz, speaking in Filipino, told a press briefing.

The Philippine government enacted the Jeepney Phase-Out Law, also referred to as the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) in order to phase out old and inefficient vehicles that are referred to as jeepneys and replace them with modern, safer, and more environmentally friendly public transport vehicles. The proposed law is composed of two main components: the PUV Modernization…

[upismediacenter]

PARA PO! PARA SA BAYAN!

LABANAN ANG KLASISTANG PAMAMALAKAD, TUMINDIG KASAMA ANG MENORIDAD!

LABAN NG TSUPER, LABAN NG KOMYUTER!

Labing-apat na araw. Simula ika-1 ng Enero, 2024, hindi na papayagan ng pamahalaan na pumasada ang mga dyip na hindi modernisado. Sa loob ng labing-apat na araw, ang kasalukuyang pamasahe na Php 12 ay lolobo hanggang Php 40-50 upang tustusan ang gastos ng tsuper sa tinatayang 2.8 Milyon hanggang 5 Milyong halaga ng modernong dyip. Sa loob ng labing-apat na araw, tinatantiyang 64,000 na drayber at 25,000 na operator ang sasalubong sa bagong taon nang walang trabaho.

Ang pamimilit ng pamahalaan na isakatuparan ng mga maliliit na tsuper at operator ang Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) ay tanda ng klasismo. Saan kukuha ng dalawang milyon si Manong Drayber na nagkakandakuba na para maabot ang kaniyang boundary, upang i-modernisa ang kaniyang dyip? Anong silbi ng ipinangakong subsidiya ng gobyerno na makatutulong daw sa mga drayber kung anim hanggang walong porsyento (6-8%) lang naman ang maiaambag sa kabuuang gastos para sa modernong unit? Ang kasalukuyang kalagayan ng sistemang pantransportasyon ng Pilipinas ay higit nang masalimuot—pagpatak ng alas sais ay hindi na uusad ang trapik; ang dating isang oras na biyahe ay inaabot na ng dalawa. Paano pa kung mababawasan ang mga pampublikong sasakyan? Hindi dapat tayo sa mga tsuper na naghahanap-buhay magalit, kundi sa administrasyong hindi makatao, hindi makamasa, at lalong hindi makabayan. 

Kasabay ng mga malawakang protesta, tumitindig ang UPIS Media Center kasama ang lahat ng mga tsuper, operator, komyuter, at mamamayan na ipinaglalaban ang karapatang panatilihin ang pamamasada ng mga tradisyunal na dyipni. Ang kasalukuyang programa ay hindi makamasa’t karapat-dapat ibasura sapagkat kung tunay na para sa ikabubuti ng bansa ang intensyon nito, hindi nito yuyurakan ang hanapbuhay ng mga mamamayang pumapasan ng bayan.

PARA PO! PARA SA BAYAN!

Basahin ang Opinion Article na ito: https://www.tumblr.com/upismediacenter/701755924495400960/opinion-bayad-po-malayo-bang-masolusyonan-ang?source=share

[pannaginip]

Inquirer.net: Various groups come out in opposition of the PUV Modernization program.

"Importing surplus minibuses that break down easily, in the context of worsening climate change impacts like flooding, and essentially wasting thousands of PUV units when they can be rehabilitated, can hardly be called sustainable,” [Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment] National Coordinator Jon Bonifacio told INQUIRER.net.

"The DOTr and the Marcos Jr. administration can throw around all the pro-environment language they want, but the PUVMP, at its core, violates the principles of a just transition,” he explained.

"In transitioning towards a more sustainable and genuinely eco-friendly future, the processes involved should be fair, equitable, and just,” [Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines] said in Filipino in a post on social media.

“A project or a policy cannot be considered environmentally friendly if it is not pro-people,” the group insisted.

"We clarify that we are not against the modernization of public transportation as long as it is based on the capability and capacity of the operator, not for privatization,” [Pamalakaya] said.

2023 Dec. 30

[phgq]

Modern PUJs ply Nova-Valenzuela route anew

#PHnews: Modern PUJs ply Nova-Valenzuela route anew

MANILA – As Metro Manila reverted to general community quarantine (GCQ), at least 23 modern public utility jeepneys (PUJs) of the Novaliches-Malinta Jeepney Transport Service Cooperative (NMJTSC) have resumed plying the Novaliches (Quezon City)-Malinta (Valenzuela City) route.

NMJTSC general manager Helen Reponia-Viloria told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Friday that their air-conditioned PUJs stopped operation on August 4 after President Rodrigo Duterte placed anew the National Capital Region and the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

With the shift to GCQ, she said they have undertaken steps to comply strictly with the guidelines of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The NMJTSC is enforcing safe physical distancing among its passengers. Instead of the usual 26-seat capacity of the modern PUJ, only 15 passengers are accommodated in each trip.

The passengers are also required to wear face shields, aside from face masks.

Passengers who are below 21 years old and senior citizens who are 60 years of age and above are not allowed on board.

Viloria said they charge a minimum fare of PHP11 and PHP19 for a ride from Novaliches to Valenzuela.

The modern PUJs were launched on the Novaliches-Malinta route connecting Novaliches, North Caloocan City and Quezon City and Valezuela City under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) of the Duterte administration.

The NMJTSC has terminals at the Shop and Ride Site in Barangay Novaliches Proper and near the Valenzuela City Hall along MacArthur Highway in Barangay Malinta. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Modern PUJs ply Nova-Valenzuela route anew." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112978 (accessed August 21, 2020 at 07:30PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Modern PUJs ply Nova-Valenzuela route anew." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112978 (archived).

[smrbhagare97]

PUV modernization to proceed after being left off 2023 budget

PUV modernization to proceed after being left off 2023 budget

By Arjay L. Balinbin, Senior Reporter THE Transportation department said it will proceed with the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) after funding for the program was left off the department’s 2023 budget proposal. “Kung sakaling hindi mabigyan ng pondo o hindi magkaroon ng amendment upang magkaroon ng budget ang PUVMP, hindi pa rin magkakaroon ng suspensyon sa implementasyon ng…

[unbiasedph]

NorMin transport group wants DOTr to retain current LTFRB-10 director

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Northern Mindanao Federation of Transport Cooperatives (Nomfedtrasco) has requested the Department of Transportation and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) central office to retain the current LTFRB director in region 10. Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Northern Mindanao (Region 10) Director Aminoden Guro (Photo courtesy of Misamis Oriental Provincial Information Office) In a statement on Saturday, July 1, the Nomfedtrasco acknowledged LTFRB-10 director Aminoden Guro, whose expertise can be very essential to fastening the implementation of Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) in the region. In a press briefing, Nomfedtrasco general manager Luzviminda Escobidal told reporters that Guro should be the one to finish the PUVMP as he was the one who started the program in Northern Mindanao region. Escobidal also pointed out the possible difficulties that might be encountered in the implementation of modernization program if it is passed on new official. “We want him to continue. It would be hard because if there is a new regional director, we will begin from the start. We will have a lot of things to do before the implementation of the program. He started it and he should finish the program,” she said in vernacular. Guro, on the other hand, also echoed Escobidal’s statement and acknowledged the pending programs in his office, especially the Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP) due to the threat of Covid-19. However, he confirmed that the LPTRP, one of the major requirements for the modernization program, has recently been approved in the city council and is already a city ordinance. He said it will be submitted to the LTFRB central office for the issuance of memorandum circular so that the transport cooperatives that have pending loan applications to the government banks will be approved and fully implement the modernized PUVs in the city. Guro thanked Nomfedtrasco and said he is ready to leave the office once he successfully implemented the PUV modernization program. “Anyway, after the implementation, I can leave the office. I would like to thank you and the rest of the members,” Guro said in vernacular. The Nomfedtrasco is composed of 45 transport cooperatives in the entire Northern Mindanao. It is a duly registered transport cooperative by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and accredited by the Office of Transportation Cooperatives (OTC). Meanwhile, Misamis Oriental new governor Peter Unabia, also sent a request to President Bong Bong Marcos Jr., through the office of the President, recommending Guro to be retained as the regional director of LTFRB-10. Unabia expressed his trust to the current regional director to implement the programs of LTFRB with the utmost efficiency and success. “I personally know him to be a man of integrity and honesty. He is very dependable and can be trusted to execute and implement your programs with the utmost efficiency and success,” the letter said. Read Full News @ Manila Bulletin Read the full article