Beep Beep Beep Beep! God Save The King

Last week (March 6- 10, 2023), a transport strike took place in the Philippines due to the government's so-called "Jeepney modernization" program, which is seen by many as a way to phase out old public utility jeepneys. The government's lack of proper study and failure to offer financial assistance to the jeepney drivers and operators for transitioning to the new e-jeepneys has caused much frustration among those affected. As a result, the jeepney drivers and operators took to the streets to demand that their grievances be heard by the government.

The goal of the strike was not to paralyze the transportation system but to highlight the plight of jeepney drivers and operators, who provide a valuable public service to commuters. They are in favor of modernization but cannot shoulder the cost of it on their own. Most of the drivers and operators are in their late 30s to 70s years of age, mostly from 4th to 3rd-class economy households. On their own, transitioning is not feasible. But as public utility service, thus being public servants, jeepney drivers, and operators should have major backing from the government, especially in this much-needed transition. It is imperative for the government to help them transition by providing financial assistance and a clear plan for the transition to e-jeepneys.

However, the government seems to be more interested in importing e-jeepneys rather than investing in small, local jeepney manufacturers who can refurbish old jeepneys and upgrade them to fit the standards of the new e-jeepneys. Utilizing local jeepney manufacturers would not only help the drivers and operators but also support the local economy.

It is important to note that the jeepney drivers and operators are not against modernization, but they want the government to consider their side and provide them with a proper plan for transitioning to e-jeepneys. They are willing to adapt to new technology and are in favor of energy-efficient and eco-friendly e-jeepneys, but they cannot afford the cost of the transition on their own. Who doesn't want to drive a new, much bigger, much more comfortable, airconditioned, energy efficient, non-petrol reliant, eco-friendly e-jeepney?

The main points are: the recent Jeepney strike in the Philippines highlights the need for a proper study and financial assistance from the government to help the jeepney drivers and operators transition to modernized e-jeepneys. The government should also consider investing in local jeepney manufacturers to support the local economy and provide a sustainable solution for modernization. The jeepney drivers and operators are not against modernization, and they are willing to adapt to new technology, but they need the government's support to do so.

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I have made 5 videos about my experiences and musings about our Jeepneys. Please check them out, and click the links below. Please like, share, and subscribe to my youtube channel, Facebook page, TikTok, and blog.

Kwentong Jeepney Una:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/CefiSiiT2UU

Kwentong Jeepney Pangalawa:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JgcyV81D7Hc

Kwentong Jeepney Pangatlo:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gQxGTRO6yNw

Kwentong Jeepney Pang-Apat:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ES8yGSIVMx8

Kwentong Jeepney  Panlima:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/inTbHunFoRo

Maraming salamat po :)