The jeepney modernization program in the country is a controversial issue that has been met with mixed reactions from the public. On one hand, the program promises to improve safety standards, increase comfort for passengers, and reduce pollution. On the other hand, it has been criticized for its high costs, potential displacement of jeepney drivers and operators, and lack of consultation with stakeholders.
One of the primary advantages of the jeepney modernization program is the improved safety standards it promises to provide. The new jeepneys will be equipped with modern safety features, such as GPS, speed limiters, and CCTV cameras. This will help ensure that passengers are safe during their commute. The new jeepneys will also have to meet stricter emissions standards, which will help reduce pollution and improve air quality. These improvements in safety and environmental standards are significant advantages of the program.
Another advantage of the program is the increased comfort it will provide to passengers. The new “jeepneys” will have better suspension systems, air conditioning, and more spacious seating arrangements. This will make commuting more comfortable, especially for long trips. But these “jeepneys” are basically just minibusses imported from China, a piece of information that sets Filipinos off as these minibusses will erase the traditional jeepney culture that is unique to the country.
However, one of the biggest concerns of the jeepney modernization program is the higher costs of the new jeepneys. The cost of a new jeepney can range from Php 1.6 million to more than Php 2.2 million, which is significantly higher than the cost of a traditional jeepney. Many jeepney drivers and operators may not be able to afford the new jeepneys, especially since they will be required to purchase them upfront.
Furthermore, the program has been criticized for its potential displacement of jeepney drivers and operators. Many drivers and operators have been in the industry for decades and may not have the means to purchase new jeepneys. These politicians keep agreeing with the modernization program because they, themselves, do not commute daily to work and just ride their luxury private vehicles escorted sometimes by the police. They should be listening to people who know better.
In my opinion, the jeepney modernization program should prioritize the interests of the drivers. While it is important to improve safety standards, provide greater comfort to passengers, and reduce pollution, it is equally important to ensure that the drivers are not left behind in the process. The government should provide financial assistance and incentives to drivers and operators to help them purchase new jeepneys. They could also consider a gradual transition to the new jeepneys, allowing drivers and operators to continue using their old jeepneys until they can afford the new ones.
Moreover, the government should consult with drivers and operators to understand their concerns and address them effectively. The drivers and operators have a unique perspective and understanding of the industry, and their input could help improve the jeepney modernization program. Local designs of the “modern jeepneys” have been unveiled and are created by our own countrymen and are circulating around news outlets and they only cost half the cost of these imported minibusses. The new local designs are cheaper, compliant with what the LTO requires in terms of emissions, and resolve the problems of culture wipe as it takes the image of the old design of jeeps but more safe and modern.
In conclusion, the jeepney modernization program has its pros and cons, and as of now, the government has to listen to its drivers and operators since they know what they are saying enough. While the program promises to improve safety standards, increase comfort for passengers, and reduce pollution, it could also lead to higher costs and displacement of drivers and operators. To make the program successful, the government should prioritize the interests of the drivers and operators by providing financial assistance, incentives, and consultation to ensure a smooth transition to the new jeepneys. By doing so, the jeepney modernization program could be a win-win situation for all stakeholders.
Illustration by: Mohaimen Aba
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