The modernized versions of the iconic jeepney are finally here.
The country’s Department of Transport (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) have introduced yesterday the first batch of the modernized public utility jeepneys (PUJs), which interestingly, looked more like mini buses.
The initial 15 vehicles were painted blue, white, and red, colors which were no doubt inspired by the Philippine flag. The modern PUJs will be operated by the Senate Employees Transport Service Cooperative (SETSCO), the cooperative composed of the employees of the Senate of the Philippines, according to a statement released by the DOTr.
While their exteriors have nothing in common with the more colorfully and artistically designed old school jeepneys, the modern PUJs’ seats are positioned face-to-face, similar to the low-tech version. Photos show that they have designated priority seats for the elderly, pregnant, and adults with children.
According to the DOTr’s statement, the vehicles are projected to emit 40 percent less carbon, presumably when compared to older jeepneys. They didn’t say if the vehicles are airconditioned, though judging by the photos, it is highly likely that they are.
The vehicles will traverse a roundtrip route which includes major landmarks in Manila such as Star City, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Philippine International Convention Center, the office of the Government Service Insurance System, the Senate of the Philippines, Mall of Asia, and the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange.
The vehicles started operating today, and 20 more PUJs will service the route in July, according to the DOTr.
The government started a campaign this year to remove old, dilapidated jeepneys, which it said puts passengers’ lives at risk. These will be replaced by more modern versions similar to the Philippine Senate’s new vehicles, but jeepney drivers say they will go into debt if they purchase the modernized PUJs, which could cost as much as PHP1.6 million each (almost US$30,000).
It’s a steep price to pay, considering that the LTFRB has allotted only a PHP80,000 subsidy (almost US$1,500) per driver.
Long-considered the king of the country’s roads, the first jeepneys were originally made from the United States army jeeps that were left over the Philippines after World War II.
