Traffic is getting pretty bad out there, ladies and gentlemen. An MMDA study confirms that the vehicle volume on EDSA actually reached Christmas-levels as far back as November. In an effort to help the situation and to provide better options for commuters, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has announced that it will push through with the phase-out of 15-year old passenger jeepneys .
According to a report by Philstar, the initiative was confirmed at a press conference by LTFRB chairman Martin Delgra. Thus far, jeepneys are the only vehicles that haven't been affected by the government's modernization scheme that has seen the upgrading of public taxis, buses, and AUV vehicles.
To help jeepney operators with the transition, Delgra says that the LTFRB will assist affected drivers with securing bank loans so that they can purchase a new vehicle. “Handa naman kaming tulungan sila hanggat makakaya namin upang hindi naman maapektuhan ng matindi ang kanilang kabuhayan,” Delgra explained.
Delgra added that the LFTRB will aim to not only improve the quality of operating jeepneys, but to also place them strategically to meet the demands and volume of commuters.
What do you guys think? Will this phase-out help with improving traffic and our public transportation system?
