Only 1 in 4 jeepneys will return to Cebu City streets

Only a quarter of the public utility jeepneys (PUJs) in Cebu City will be initially allowed to ply the roads again since the pandemic restricted movements. 

The city’s ad hoc committee in charge of the gradual return of PUJs recommended allowing only 1,355 units in specific routes out of the 5,000 registered jeepneys. 

Jeepneys have been prohibited from operating in the city for almost half a year now. 

In a virtual press conference on Tuesday, October 28, Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella said the initial 1,355 would also be screened based on their compliance with the requirements set by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). The evaluation will be conducted from October 30 to November 3. 

“Our plan is to make the return gradual…. The Jeepney Operators Association, I think, during the meetings and consultation agreed on this for a start,” Labella said in a mix of English and Cebuano.

PUJ drivers will be required to undergo rapid testing for the novel coronavirus. Their units must comply with minimum health standards. Labella is set to issue an executive order on this after final discussions with the LTFRB.

As for the drivers whose jeepneys are not allowed to operate yet, Labella said he had tasked the city administrator to collect the names of those who are willing to shift to other transportation services, like taxis. – Rappler.com