Both sides in the ongoing debate on the modernization of public utility vehicles (PUVs) known as “jeepneys” have both positive and negative points. These need to be thoroughly looked into to be able to come up with a reasonable and acceptable alternative plan that will equally be pro-commuter and -driver.
Jeepneys started to be used as a means of public transportation post World War II using left over US military vehicles from the war. Eventually, local manufacturers produced jeepneys and these evolved as the most popular means of inland travel in the country. There was a time when the units were taken cared of, dressed up, and heavily decorated. Owning a jeepney became a source of pride for families so much so that it was common for the family name to be colorfully emblazoned on the vehicle’s body. The “Philippine jeepney” also became one of the country’s symbols because for the longest time, they could only be found in the Philippines.
I come from a family of jeepney drivers. On my mother’s side, Lolo Pilo and two of my uncles, Tito Rody and Tito Nardo were all jeepney drivers. They all plied the San Juan-Divisoria, and San Juan-Quiapo routes. I have very fond memories of riding the vehicles they drove. As a girl, I liked riding with them when there was no school. We used them during Christmas time to see holiday displays and lights, to go to Luneta, and during the rare times when our family would go on outings to Antipolo and Matabungkay.
Their families’ livelihood depended on earnings from driving jeepneys. Even during my younger years as it is now, a lot of poor families depended on jeepneys to earn. Indeed, there are sentimental and very practical reasons why jeepneys should remain on our roads.
However, times have changed and we are at a point when the daily horrendous traffic has ruined the quality of life of the millions living in Metro Manila and major urban areas. Spending an average of four hours daily in traffic leaves one physically drained and psychologically stressed. Productivity at work suffers, and time for family and other pursuits is drastically reduced. There has been no study yet on traffic’s impact on people’s health but I think it is safe to assume that certain health problems may be caused by traffic.
Of course these problems should not and cannot be blamed on jeepneys and their drivers alone. While it is true that many of the units no longer appear to be road-worthy and many drivers do not even follow traffic rules, the problem is really more complex.
Modernization of PUVs is one solution. But it is only one and must be carried out as part of a comprehensive plan to address our transport woes. This administration wants to phase out the present jeepneys and replace them with modern ones. The absence of an acceptable blueprint on how such modernization is to be done has, as expected created jitters and opposition among those who will be affected, such as the drivers.
The limited information being floated around does not help. It is said that the modern units will cost around PhP1.6 million per jeepney. This is way beyond the means of ordinary drivers, maybe even the small operators. This cost is about the same as the amount one would pay for a brand new SUV and this is outrageously high for a “jeepney” no matter if government will subsidize it with P80,000 per unit. It is impossible for drivers to acquire these vehicles without substantial support from government.
If this administration really wants to phase jeepneys out, this should be done in phases. Begin with units that are no longer road-worthy as these even puts passengers’ lives at risk. This should not be difficult as road-worthiness can easily be determined.
There should be a program for drivers who would like and DESERVE to own a new unit. The prices and terms of payment should be affordable and only drivers who pass strict tests on driving skills and knowledge on rules should qualify. Road-worthiness must apply to both the vehicle, and the driver.
As said, PUV modernization should just be one of the steps in a comprehensive plan to address the transportation problems we are in. I am not in a position to prescribe solutions but during my many travels, I have had the opportunity to observe and “study” how other countries do things.
In many countries, the transportation industry is highly regulated and heavily subsidized by government because they consider this as a vital service to the people. The overall objective is commuter-welfare.
In these countries, profit is not the overriding factor and thus, drivers and others who work in the industry are also protected and paid better.
They are strict when it comes to vehicles’ road-worthiness because the possibility of accidents in using “defective” vehicles is higher.
Their drivers are real professionals who underwent and passed strict training and testing. In some countries, drivers even have first aid training so they can address minor mishaps. Drivers must be neat and presentable. Here, PUV drivers hold professional licenses but many do not even understand street signs. In actual terms, commuters’ lives are in the hands of drivers and therefore, only the fittest must be issued licenses.
Roads in other countries are very good and rarely need repairs. Good roads make trips easier. When repairs are done, they do this at nights when there are fewer vehicles and commuters on the road. This way, such repairs do not contribute to traffic as much as they do here where roads are forever repaired because the quality is below standards.
Buses and trains in other countries are well-maintained and service is efficient. It is very rare for trains to malfunction. They follow their schedules to the minute. As far as buses go, their designated stops are strictly followed both by drivers and commuters. The latter do not complain when they need to walk from bus stops to their destinations. Because of the efficiency and reliability of public transport, even those with cars take the bus and trains regularly.
There are dedicated bike lanes for those who use bicycles more than motorized vehicles. Thus, people have more options in terms of their mode of transportation.
Some would sneer and say that these are in other countries. But I believe that with political will, the correct vision, and a comprehensive, long-term plan, the Philippines can also achieve what others have. Inferiority is not one of our traits. However, we must begin now.
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