Jeepney drivers hold protest vs old jeep units' phase out

MANILA, Philippines – Several jeepney drivers and operators on Monday morning held protest in front of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to oppose the proposal to phase out old jeep units.

The protest which started along Elliptical Road, Quezon City toward LTFRB and Land Transportation Office (LTO), was led by the transport group Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON).

The transport groups will also head to the Department of Transportation and Communications office in Ortigas to express their opposition against the jeepney phase out.

The proposed phasing out of old jeepney units is part of the modernization program of the government. Transport Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya and LTFRB Chair Winston Ginez however said the proposal is not yet finalized.

According to a radio report, PISTON President George San Mateo calls for the government attention regarding the phase out as about hundred thousand jeepney drivers and operators will be affected if the modernization program is implemented.

Aside from denouncing the proposed old jeepney phase out, PISTON also asked the government to lower the tax on spare parts.