E-jeeps start plying in Lapu-Lapu

CEBU, Philippines — Jeepneys offering free wi-fi connection and charging ports and equipped with global positioning system and dashboard cameras have started plying the streets of Lapu-Lapu City.

The so-called e-jeepneys, manufactured by a company called Star 8, also each feature a small electric fan and a closed-circuit television camera.They are powered by solar energy.

Each unit can accommodate up to 23 passengers.

Yesterday, 10 units already started plying the major thoroughfares of the city in the barangays of Poblacion, Pusok, Ibo, Buaya, Mactan, Maribago, Marigondon, and Basak, picking up passengers free of charge.

The free rides will last until February 14. After that, a minimum fare of P8 will be collected from the riding public.

At the blessing and inauguration of the e-jeeps’ operations yesterday at the Lapu-Lapu City Hall grounds, Mayor Paz Radaza said 15 more units have recently arrived and will also start fetching passengers.

By April, she said, the number of e-jeeps in the city is expected to reach a hundred.

Radaza said the e-jeepneys’ operation complements the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) initiated by the Duterte administration.

PUVMP seeks to provide safer, more comfortable and environmentally sustainable mode of public transport to commuters by upgrading vehicles to meet international safety, energy efficiency and emission standards.

Radaza also said that the presence of e-jeepneys in Lapu-Lapu streets is also seen to help decongest traffic situation in the city.

Star 8 operations manager Bong Laurel said that although they have presence in other regions, this is their first foray into Central Visayas.

UDOTCO will manage and operate the jeepneys with the support of Star 8 and the city government. Star 8 will provide technical support and trainings to the drivers and electricians, as well as help maintain the units.

UDOTCO president Malvin Arias said only the members of the organization are allowed to apply as e-jeepney drivers.

“UDOTCO members will be prioritized and only those with complete requirements approved by traffic regulating bodies and those who have joined the Drivers’ Academy Seminar can drive the e-jeepneys," said Arias in Cebuano. — JMD, (FREEMAN)