DOTr chief: Old PUJs can stay if roadworthy

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga  , Philippines  —  Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade clarified the other day that not all old passenger jeepneys would be phased out under the government’s modernization program, since roadworthy vehicles would be allowed to operate.

At a press conference during the Sulong Pilipinas forum here Monday, Tugade said old but roadworthy jeepneys would still be allowed, but they will have to undergo regular inspections to ensure their good condition.

Contrary to some reports that as many as 600,000 jeepneys nationwide would be banned with the enforcement of the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) modernization program, Tugade estimated only 220,000 units would be affected.

Asked whether government-endorsed modern jeepneys would be readily available for jeepney operators and drivers complying with the modernization plan, Tugade said the program would take three years to be implemented fully, contrary to the earlier target of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to implement the program by the end of 2018.

He cited affordable financing schemes available to help the operators buy the modern jeepneys.

The financing rates would include an easy down payment, very low interest rates, payability in seven years and P80,000 government subsidy.

The PUV modernization program mandates the phase-out of jeepneys at least 15 years old and their replacement by Euro-4 compliant engines with the new models prescribed by government.

While jeepney operators and drivers have argued that the PUV modernization would displace thousands of drivers, Tugade cited a study indicating that even if jeepney drivers pay for amortizations for new modern jeepneys, their take home pay would still be adequate for their families.

The DOTr has insisted that the modern jeepney should conform to the existing environmental and product standards set by the Bureau of Standards.

It has side doors instead of rear doors, and a higher ceiling that allows for standing passengers, which translates to higher carrying capacity.

Emergency exits are mandated and some units will have provisions for disabled passengers, coupled with WiFi, global positioning satellite, closed-circuit television cameras, dashboard camera, speed limiter and automatic fare collection system.

In compliance with the Clean Air Act of 1999, the modern jeepney will either have a Euro-4 compliant emission system or an electric motor that would emit less pollution or none at all, the DOTr said.