Jeepney modernization a go – Duterte

BY LLANESCA T. PANTI

Under the jeepney modernization plan, jeepneys and other public utility vehicles such as buses and vans aged 15 years and above will not be allowed on the roads.

“We are being killed, slowly… with all the fumes [from jeepneys]. You should see Manila at sunset. It is a mess. If you don’t toe the line, I will really pull you out of the streets. I don’t care if we go into turmoil,” Duterte said.

The state subsidy for the purchase of e-jeepneys was initially pegged at P2.26 billion for 28,000 new jeepneys or P80,000 per jeepney. This would mean that a driver or operator would need to shell out at least P800 a day in seven years to purchase the new jeepney.

“Turmoil is what I like. I thrive on turmoil. Guguyurin ko talaga ‘yang mga sasakyan niyo (I will really put your vehicles away for good). The law is the law,” Duterte added.

In October, the President warned that jeepney drivers who will resist the modernization program will face hunger and poverty.

The President’s statements came a week after George San Mateo, President of the Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston), posted bail for supposedly violating Public Service Law for leading a transport strike.