ONE-YEAR EXTENSION FOR JEEPNEY OWNERS, LTFRB SAYS.

The purpose of the Jeepney modernization act is to intensify transportation in the Philippines through safer and more comfortable modernized jeeps. It will help increase the driver's income as modern jeepneys can accommodate more passengers compared to a traditional jeep. Added to this is the safety of commuters from thieves and other dangers that lurk on the road. Because of this issue, many owners and drivers of traditional jeepneys are worried about the possible loss of their livelihood. In addition, there are drivers who only earn enough for their daily needs through driving.  That's why some people can’t help but protest against this proposal. 

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has given traditional jeepney operators a one-year extension to prepare for the modernization program. The original deadline to stop the operation of old jeepneys was March 31, 2023. The cancellation of licenses for old jeepneys is in accordance with the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. While modernizing vehicles is important for the safety of the public, it is also important to ensure that traditional jeepney drivers do not lose their livelihoods. The government should create a good system to implement the law without disregarding the livelihoods of others. According to some jeepney drivers who have switched to modernized jeepneys, they have benefited from the increased passenger capacity. The Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) has benefits for jeepney drivers, such as a quota of 8,600 passengers per jeepney. If they exceed this quota, they will receive overtime pay. During the holiday season, drivers earn more than on ordinary days.

The Office of Transportation Cooperatives aims to consolidate all drivers who are not yet part of a cooperative to provide them with work opportunities. According to the LTFRB, drivers who have been consolidated and have old jeepneys can still operate as long as their vehicles are not “rattling” and are still "roadworthy.". Riza Marie Paches, a board member of the LTFRB, clarified that there is a timeline for these drivers, and after 27 months, they must replace their old jeepneys with modernized ones.

The traditional jeepney is a part of Philippine culture and history. Senator Francis Tolentino advocates for preserving the iconic jeepney design as part of our identity as Filipinos.