PUJs still banned under GCQ due to distancing concerns

Malacañang confirmed that public utility jeepneys (PUJs) are still prohibited from operating under the general community quarantine (GCQ) starting June 1.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque cited the difficulty of enforcing physical distancing inside traditional jeepneys as the reason for the prohibition.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases will study how PUJs can resume operations while adhering to health protocols.

The LTFRB had earlier considered allowing traditional jeepneys to operate, but this was not part of the Department of Transportation's initial plan.

The decision for PUJs' operation was pending the necessity of their services and the priority given to public transport with higher passenger capacity like buses and modern jeepneys.

From June 1 to 21, trains, bus augmentation, taxis, TNVS, shuttle services, point-to-point buses, and bicycles will be allowed to operate under GCQ.