E-jeeps, buses launched in Ormoc

LEYTE, Philippines — Ormoc City Mayor Richard Gomez marked the first day of his second term on Monday with the launch of e-jeeps and buses as part of the implementation of the public utility vehicle modernization program.

Aside from Gomez and other city government officials, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board regional director Gualberto Gualberto and executives of Star 8 and Metro Davao, the operators of the e-jeeps and e-buses, respectively, attended the launch.

“I was amazed nang nakita ko ang napakalinis at napakaayos na terminal niyo that is why he recommended to the board to launch the program in Ormoc,” Gualberto said.

Netenel Kramer, chief operating officer of Star 8, said a tap card with a minimum load of P20 would be used to ride e-jeeps. The minimum fare is P9.

Kramer said regular commuters should get a green card while students, senior citizens and persons with disabilities should get a blue card.

Ronald Laurel, also of Star 8, said the e-jeeps, which are electric and solar powered, have USB chargers, free Wi-Fi and GPS.

Gomez said Ormoc uses e-jeeps to lessen air pollution and protect the environment.

He clarified that e-jeeps would not replace tricycles but only serve as an alternative in routes where trikes are prohibited.

Gomez said Ormoc would also impose a total ban on the use of plastic in 2021.