Jeepney Modernization Pros and Cons
14 March 2023On March 6, various transport groups nationwide staged a protest to oppose the national government's jeepney modernization program, calling it anti-poor and infringing upon the workers' rights of small jeepney drivers and operators.
This begs the question: why is the national government seemingly hell-bent on pushing for the jeepney modernization program? Are its advantages outweigh that of the disadvantages, which are mainly directed at the jeepney operators and drivers? Finally, if the jeepney modernization pushes through, is it really for the greater good?
In this article from Lumina Homes, participate in the national jeepney modernization debate and objectively weigh its pros and cons for jeepney drivers, the riding public, and the nation as a whole.
Modern Jeepneys vs Traditional Jeepneys
Traditional jeepneys have always been regarded as a massive cultural symbol in the Philippines. It is monikered the "King of the Road" for its versatility and durability and is the primary and most affordable mode of transportation among common Filipino commuters. Whether you're holding a luxury bag or a basketful of onions in one hand and a newspaper-covered smoked fish in the other, you are welcome aboard. There is no discrimination.
On the other hand, what makes modernized jeepneys so appealing is also their appearance and, by extension, safety features. It cannot be denied that some jeepneys are, despite their colorful facades, already too old and need to be replaced, if not disposed of for a new, modernized version. This is exactly what modernized jeepneys are for — phase out the old jeepneys to make way for newer, safer, more environmentally friendly air-conditioned minibusses. To be fair, there are also prototypes that resemble the traditional jeepneys.
According to the Department of Transportation's Omnibus Guidelines, the modernization program would require jeepney drivers and operators to comply with industry standards to be granted the right to operate. This includes that the electric vehicle or combustion engine that they should use must be compliant with the Euro IV emission standards, which would help reduce carbon emissions.
In addition, jeepneys are mandated to comply with international safety standards, which encompass the comfort and protection of commuters when inside the jeepneys. Seats must be comfortable with a maximum seating capacity to discourage jeepney drivers from forcing more passengers inside the vehicle if the comfort of passengers already inside will be compromised.
Agreeing on the Jeepney Phaseout: Jeepney Modernization Advantages
According to the Land Transportation Franchising & Regulatory Board (LTFRB), individual operators of the old jeepneys can no longer operate after June 30 this year, unless they join a corporation or a cooperative. Essentially, this means modernizing jeepneys and regulating jeepney franchises would soon become compulsory.
However strongly we may feel for jeepney drivers, operators, and their livelihood, the national government sees something larger-than-life from the modernization program that they believe will greatly benefit the country. Philippine legislators, including the President, and jeepney phaseout supporters see the modernization program to:
1. Decrease the detrimental environmental effects of old jeepneys
It cannot be denied that our old and outdated jeepneys have largely contributed to air pollution on our highways. Old jeepney models emit large amounts of carbon, which adversely impacts climate and overall temperature. With newer models, carbon emissions will decrease.
2. Increase employment opportunities for new drivers and workers
Since the jeepney modernization would necessitate skilled vehicle manufacturing workers for the creation of newer jeepney models, as well as new drivers, this means giving our countrymen new employment opportunities.
3. Beautify our roads with attractive and brand-new jeepneys
There are traditional jeepneys that, while they have proved to be impressively durable, have lost appeal because of their age and broken external parts. These kinds of jeepneys need to be replaced not only for modernization's sake, but also for the safety of commuters in case these old jeepneys break down while on the road.
Opposing the Jeepney Phase out: Jeepney Modernization Disadvantages
Not needless to say, this modernization program has its cons that make it hard for Filipinos to simply agree without reservations. Despite its good intentions, there are a number of factors to consider, especially for the jeepney drivers and operators. These cons are:
1. It's too expensive
The cost of the modernized jeepney would go up to ₱2.8 million, which is way too expensive even with the promised subsidy of ₱160,000. This amount is only less than 6 percent of the modern model's total cost. With jeepney drivers' daily earnings only averaging at a few hundred pesos, the modern jeepney's cost is beyond their financial capabilities.
2. Minimal environmental advantage
While there is a legitimate reduction of carbon emissions and greenhouse gases should the old jeepneys be phased out from our roads, the impact would only be minimal at best. According to a Rappler report, jeepneys only constitute 2 percent of the total registered vehicles in the Philippines. Old jeepneys are not the main culprits in the carbon emissions on our highways.
3. Lack of jeepneys will burden commuters
If the old jeepneys are completely phased out of our roads, it would possibly result in the lack of jeepneys to accommodate thousands of commuters every day. This is because many jeepney drivers and operators might think about going out of business and look for other means to make a living. By extension, this might result in greater traffic congestion, which will only exacerbate the riding public's daily commuting problems.
Jeepney Modernization: Finding a Middle Ground
It goes without saying that both sides of the political spectrum have legitimate reasons for fighting for what they think is for the greater good. The government argues that modern jeepneys will protect commuters and the environment with much safer jeepney models. The protesters, meanwhile, think that this modernization should not be made at the expense of small jeepney drivers and operators.
Nevertheless, the riding public deserves a much safer, more efficient public transportation system. This means much lesser traffic jams, more affordable fares, and the availability of more public vehicles instead of a car-centric transport system. The national government is tasked to do this Herculean task, but the solution must be examined carefully so as not to earn the ire of those who will be adversely impacted.
At Lumina Homes, we make sure that our homeowners have convenient access to public transportation to commute. This means having their homes and communities to be near major roads and highways. Moreover, there is also a free shuttle service with pick-up points within the community as an amenity for Lumina homeowners.
Lumina Homes, Vista Land's affordable house and lot provider, have been serving Filipino families for more than 10 years in achieving an affordable house and lot in the Philippines. Aside from affordability, we designed our communities to be in proximity to major roads and thoroughfares, marketplaces, restaurants, schools, local government offices, and more for the convenience of all residents.
For your real estate investment concerns, message us through our website or social media accounts. One of our available sales representatives shall be able to accommodate and assist you with your homeownership inquiries. Get an affordable house and lot for sale through Lumina Homes today!
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