Jeepneys as part of Filipinos lives

Traditional jeepneys have always been part of the culture and heritage of the Philippines; they are distinctive in the country. Therefore, removing the Jeepneys from our roads means removing the Filipino-ness from life.

The government's initiative in modernizing the public transport system will put the job of the jeepney drivers at risk as it requires them to use minibuses as a replacement for the traditional jeepneys, which are too expensive.

Traditional jeepneys only cost around P150,00 to P250,00, while minibuses or modern e-jeepneys cost as much as P2.8 million.

Although the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will provide a subsidy of P160,00, it is not enough to support the drivers and operators to pay off their debt by availing the modernized jeeps. This is just an extra burden on the hardworking jeepney drivers who have to do more just to use those modernized jeeps.

There are many things to look at in this program, it is not just about the issue of transportation, but it opens the livelihood not just of the drivers, but the Filipinos and the culture of the Philippines. It is easy to say that it is time to modernize the traditional jeepney, but does the government think of the consequences of this program?

For this program to be successful, this needs a thorough analysis and consultation in many sectors that will not affect the lives of many Filipinos.

Traditional jeepneys are not just a mode of transport but a part of Filipinos' everyday lives. It served the country for many generations and is considered the backbone of public transportation. It is very easy to ride; it does not need conductors or any difficult processes. Just hand over the fare to fellow passengers till it reaches the driver, tell the drop-off, and the driver will take it.

Modernization is good, however, if this will become a huge burden for the country, especially on the side of low-earning jeepney drivers and commuters, then the government needs to think twice.