A few days ago, the Metro Manila Council (MMC) recommended suspending buses and jeepneys from operating after the general community quarantine (GCQ) takes effect in Metro Manila on Monday (June 1).
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Jojo Garcia explains that they would rather avoid any potential health issues that might arise from taking these modes of transportation.
“Mahirap i-control lalong lalo na may inaayos ang DOTr (Department of Transportation), LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board), MMDA at DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) na yung bus natin binabago na yung mga ruta,” he adds. [It is hard to control, especially since the DOTr, LTFRB, MMDA, and DPWH are still modifying the bus routes.]
The MMC has also recommended allowing Transportation Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) and taxis with a maximum of two passengers, as well as tricycles and pedicabs with limited passengers.
Jedd Ugay of AltMobility PH told Inquirer that banning buses and jeeps during GCQ would be “catastrophic because it’s an impending economic crisis”. He points out that people could lose their jobs or suffer from wage cuts if they come in late because there is no public transportation available. He adds that 88% of households in the Philippines do not own cars, so some people might not even be able to go to work at all.
Garcia has mentioned that the ban on buses and jeeps will be imposed for two weeks; though the LRT, MRT, and PNR could be operating at a capacity of 10 to 13%. He also mentioned that a modified number coding scheme might be put into place during the GCQ, where motorists can use their cars during their coding days if they have other people in the car with them.
Do you think buses and jeeps should be banned during the GCQ?
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