Former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis "Chavit" Singson pledged support for jeepney operators and drivers in Bulacan as they transition to modernized public transportation under the Public Transportation Modernization Program (PTMP).
Former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis "Chavit" Singson and Governor Daniel R. Fernando during the Bulacan Transport Summit held at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium on Monday, Nov. 25, 2024. (Freddie Velez)
Singson joined the 1,500 transport stakeholders, including transport cooperatives and corporations, at the Bulacan Transport Summit 2024 held at the Bulacan Gymnasium on Monday, Nov. 25.
He said that he plans to provide financial aid for them to adopt electric jeepneys (e-jeepneys).
Singson said he would offer e-jeepneys with zero down payment and zero interest rates to operators and drivers seeking to upgrade their aging fleets.
He also highlighted the benefits of the e-jeepney particularly in reducing carbon emissions and promoting green energy solutions in the province.
“This is the future of public transportation," Singson said while showcasing a prototype e-jeepney developed by the LCS Group during the summit.
Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando commended the transport stakeholders for their active engagement and readiness to embrace modernization through the Public Transportation Modernization Program (PTMP).
“Public transportation plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and improving the daily lives of Bulakenyos,” he said.
The summit also served as a venue to discuss updates on the PTMP, the Service Contracting Program (SCP) Phase 5, and innovations in sustainable transport, including the introduction of the e-jeepney.
Singson, Fernando, Vice Governor Alexis Castro, and LTFRB Region 3 Director Aminoden Guro, took a ride in the e-jeepney around the capitol grounds, gaining first-hand experience of the vehicle’s features and functionality.
Director Guro presented updates on the PTMP, highlighting its long-term benefits for commuters and transport operators.
He emphasized the importance of transport cooperatives and the government’s commitment to creating a more sustainable and efficient transportation system.
The summit underscored the province’s dedication to modernizing public transport while prioritizing environmental sustainability and the welfare of its transport sector.