Modernizing jeepneys

The heat continues to rise as transport groups protest the plan of the government to improve the current mass transport in the country -the jeepney. The vehicle is obsolete, probably a rip-off of the old cars during the American period when its parts were manufactured and assembled. Agencies involved in the transport sector such as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory board have been firm in supporting the government's move to change the current jeepneys from the way they are today. I was once a commuter and I swear, riding on one is the best experience ever. You make your way into the jeep by hitting knees, sit down with only half your butt and the next thing you know, your hair is already up against someone else's face.

Simply put, we must step our game up. In other Southeast Asian countries, transportation like the jeepney is non-existent. They have been moving forward with other vehicles that would help the riding public such as speed trains and others. We have been so engrossed with sticking to what we know too much when there is so much to explore and learn. Jeepney drivers keep on saying that they will lose income once the modernization will take place. But have they also thought of passengers who may lose their lives if an accident happens?

The jeepneys we have plying the streets are not durable anymore. They have been running for the longest time with no proper maintenance. The seats are dilapidated as well as other basic functions of a vehicle. You feel the heat from the engine as it roars to complain that it is doing too much work. When a vehicle is involved in an accident, there is nobody to blame but the driver. Has anyone ever thought of blaming the jeepney too because of its old age? The riding public deserves to be safe and comfortable.

Honestly, that's what I envy about other countries -they have a transport system that gives them ease and convenience. Modernizing our jeepneys wouldn't hurt. Although it will cost a lot, the return of investment is more than what has been put out. Besides, the government will be helping the driver/operator financially in acquiring a new unit. This will give the commuters a sense of security that what they are riding in is safe for them. With the current state that the jeepneys are in, not leveling up, the effect rolls down to more private cars and vehicles enrolled in a transport vehicle network service.

We need an open mind for the future of our country. Today is not about being in the now but forward thinking of the next generation to use. If we can upgrade our personal gadgets, then it wouldn't harm to also upgrade our vehicles -especially those we use for the public's convenience. I guess that's what transport groups should also consider. Change is good, and it's the only thing permanent in this world.

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