Roadworthy traditional jeepneys can resume ops in GCQ areas

Traditional jeepneys that are roadworthy can resume operations in areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) as augmentation to modern jeepneys.

Transportation Undersecretary Artemio Tuazon stated that old jeepneys will be allowed to operate if modern jeepneys are insufficient to serve commuters.

However, these traditional jeepneys must be roadworthy, meaning they should not be smoke-belching or dilapidated.

All public utility vehicles, including jeepneys, must strictly adhere to health protocols such as the 'no face mask, no travel' policy and the installation of physical barriers.

Drivers must be separated from passengers by non-permeable materials like acetate, and individual passenger separators may also be required in cramped traditional jeepneys.

Vehicles must be disinfected after every round trip to prevent virus transmission.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will monitor compliance, and the LTFRB will issue special, free permits for PUVs operating under GCQ.

The DOTr had previously prioritized modernized jeepneys due to their design features that minimize passenger contact.

Transport group PISTON criticized this decision, suggesting the government is using the pandemic to phase out old jeepneys and warning of commuter difficulties due to insufficient public transport.