Over the past years, the Philippines saw an overwhelming number of Filipino Jeepney workers calling for an immediate halt to the unjust implementation of the Public Utility Vehicles Modernization Program (PUVMP).
The Marcos Jr. government has been pushing for a forced consolidation of Jeepneys despite the vehement protests from workers and commuters nationwide. If continued, this program effectively coerces individuals to surrender their franchise rights, disproportionately impacting those who cannot afford the exorbitant costs of modernization, thus risking their livelihoods.
The financial burden imposed by the modernization program, with modern Jeepneys priced at over PHP 2 million, is an unfair and unrealistic expectation for drivers and operators who earn an average of just PHP 2,000 (35 USD/49 CAD) per day. This stark contrast in costs places an overwhelming strain on the marginalized and vulnerable sector, further widening the gap of inequity.
The PUVMP caters more to the interests of big business owners, as only those with substantial financial capacity can comply with the requirements. Traditional jeepney drivers, operators, and workers, who provide an essential public service, are left to bear the brunt of this unjust policy.
15% to 100% of the sales from items in this collection will be donated to transport movements and organizations in the Philippines, including Piston and Tanggol Pasada Network. To learn more about the impact of the PUV Modernization Program on the Filipino people, check out our blog here and the following resources:
- #NoToJeepneyPhaseOut Toolkit by Pinay Collection and Inklusibo
- Briefer: Addressing mitigation measures in public transport in the Philippines & recommendations for a pro-people just transition, by Piston PH, Nov 8, 2023
- Article: DoTR doesn't Want to Admit that Jeepney Fare Hikes are Coming, by IBON Foundation, Jan 7, 2024
- Article: Gov't denies Job Loss, Higher Fares Even as Only Half of Jeepneys in NCR consolidate, by Rappler, Jan 5, 2024
- Article: Climate Targets can be Achieved without Franchise Consolidation, by Piston PH, Jan 17, 2024
- Article: Explainer: Why Some Transport Groups Support Jeepney Modernization, by Rappler, Mar 14, 2023