The DOTR said that they did not recommend to the government the immediate jeepney phaseout. Only the ones that are not worthy to travel the road must be stopped. Although this cultural mode of transportation is a livelihood for public drivers, they must be responsible also for their passengers. Many are involved in deadly accidents because of poor maintenance. They also sometimes endanger the elderly and children with their habit of driving at once without checking their passengers’ safety. Most of all, they continue to add to the chaos of roads. The Department of Transport’s modernization offer can allow drivers to maintain their source of income despite the coming of the subway in 2028. It serves as comprehensive insurance for their business. Those who can’t cope with the change will surely be left behind.
The entire subway project is slated to be operational by 2028. Drivers and franchises have 5 years to comply. The subway, which is designed to have 17 stations, will connect Valenzuela City to Pasay City. It is expected to service over 519,000 passengers daily once operational.
