UV Express Vans and Jeepneys Will Hit the Roads Again Starting Next Week
UV Express vans and traditional jeepneys will be allowed to resume operations in Metro Manila starting next week, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory board said on
June 25.
In a House Committee hearing on Metro Manila Development, Caloocan 2nd District Representative Edgar Erice asked LTFRB Chair Martin Delgra about the matter.
“Nabanggit na one week after na mabuksan yung mga UV, papayagan na 'yung traditional jeepneys. Tama ba?” Erice asked.
Delgra said the two modes of public transportation would return next week, but didn't specify the exact day jeepneys would be allowed to hit the road again: “Next week for both UV and traditional jeepneys...For Monday, may bubuksan na mga UV, and then followed by the traditional jeepney.”
Because of the community quarantine put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19, public transportation temporarily ceased operations. With the eased restrictions of the general community quarantine, which took effect starting June 1, buses, trains, and taxis were allowed to resume operations in Metro Manila as long as they run on limited capacity and observe health guidelines. However, traditional jeepneys were not allowed back on the road, and jeepney drivers have been out of business since March.
Several drivers and transport groups have called on the government to lift the ban on jeepneys to help both drivers and commuters, but authorities said they were still studying routes and health guidelines to implement for traditional jeepneys.
On June 24, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said UV Express vans had a higher chance of operating again, compared to traditional jeepneys. Department of Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said they’re still creating guidelines for jeepneys. She also mentioned the difficulties jeepney drivers may face, as they may not be able to afford modern jeepneys.
Should UV Express vans and jeepneys make their return next week, passengers will have to follow social distancing guidelines and wear masks in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 while commuting.