Things We Need to Know About the PUV Modernization Program

19 Oct Things We Need to Know About the PUV Modernization Program

Source: (left) Jason Tulio (right) phillife.co

After the two-day transport strike led by Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON), President Rodrigo Duterte is still firm in his decision to proceed with the modernization of the public utility jeepneys. However, some of the jeepney commuters and other vehicle drivers may have views that are different from the President’s and that they may not be able to figure out the rationale for such move to phase out the good old jeepney and replace it with a new and unfamiliar one.

For those who are still second-guessing on the effectivity of the PUV modernization program, listed below are the most important points that we need to remember:

1. PUV modernization program is for every bus, jeepneys, and public utility vans.
2. PUV modernization will make commuting safer as such new vehicles will be equipped with GPS and CCTVs to monitor not only the drivers but the passengers as well.
3. Easier access for People With Disability (PWDs) and those with limited mobility.
4. PUV drivers will then get their monthly salaries and benefits. Plus, their working hours will be reduced instead of working at long hours to meet that quota they need to provide for their family needs and of course to pay for the daily rent.
5. PUV modernization seeks to phase out all PUVs that are over 15 years old and will be replaced, instead, with vehicles designed to have “low-carbon and low-emission technology” .

If the program proves to be successful, our future jeepneys and buses would look like these:

Source: (left) Jason Tulio (after) Makoi Popioco

  modern jeepneys with colors from the Philippine flag with electrically-powered engines.

Source: (left) Jason Tulio (right) Owner Type Jeep

 modern jeepney features an automated fare collection system similar to the payment system of rail trains instead of passing the fare to the driver

Source: (left) Jason Tulio (right) rencelee.blogspot.com

a 22-passenger seating capacity

Source: Jason Tulio

 friendly to people with disabilities

During President Duterte’s speech in the province of Camarines Sur, he said that the modernization of PUV’s will also pave the way for a healthier commuting as compared to the many health implications that the old model of the jeepney can bring which is seen on its carbon dioxide emission. With that, President Duterte urged drivers and operators to upgrade their jeepneys by the end of this year.