MANILA (UCAN): “We are very disappointed that we cannot resume operations despite the fact that we are very much ready to observe the protocols set by the government,” said Rosalino Marable, president of the Coalition of Jeepney Operators and Drivers in the Philippines as hard hit drivers and owners of the iconic Filipino mode of transport appealed to be allowed to resume operations in Metro Manila in order to survive the Covid-19 coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) crisis.
Marable cited the story of an elderly driver whose story went viral on social media after he was found begging on Manila’s streets.
“Alberto (the jeepney driver) is one among thousands who lost their income due to Covid-19 quarantines. That’s how poor we are today. We are so poor that we already need to beg in order to survive,” Marable said on July 1.
However, presidential spokesperson, Harry Roque said jeepneys would remain suspended to curb the spread of Covid-19 in the capital.
Roque also said the government was following a “hierarchy of public transport modes” for trains, buses, modern public utility vehicles (PUVs), UV Express (public vans or minibuses) and jeepneys.
“The hierarchy of public transport will be observed. We will first use PUVs, then UV Express. Then, followed by the traditional jeepneys. If public transport is still not sufficient, that’s the time we will consider jeepneys,” Roque said in a July 1 press conference.
He said they were the last priority because their face-to-face seating arrangement allowed direct transmission of the virus.
The jeepney is the most popular form of public transport in the Philippines and known for its crowded seating and cheap fares. It has it’s origins in the post-war years when jeeps left behind by the American military were modified for public transport.
Jeepney operators had earlier assured the president, Rodrigo Duterte, they would observe necessary health protocols if allowed to operate.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
Jeepney driver association, PISTON, also said its members were going hungry with debts piling up.
“Jeepney drivers need to live. We need to adapt to this pandemic. But we need to earn a living, otherwise we will starve,” George San Mateo, PISTON’s former national president, said.
Bishop Arturo Bastes of Sorsogon, appealed for aid and donations from local dioceses for drivers.
“I call on fellow brothers and sisters in the faith, please help our dear jeepney drivers by donating food and other essential goods. They have been very helpful to our nation’s transport sector,” said Bishop Bastes in a statement.
“Many of our countrymen finished school and went to work by riding jeepneys. Perhaps this is the time to recognise their hard work.”
