[av_one_full first min_height=” vertical_alignment=” space=” custom_margin=” margin=’0px’ padding=’0px’ border=” border_color=” radius=’0px’ background_color=” src=” background_position=’top left’ background_repeat=’no-repeat’ animation=”]
[av_heading heading=’ABOVE THE LAW ‘ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=’30’ subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=”]
BY AYIN DREAM D. APLASCA
[/av_heading]
[av_textblock size=” font_color=” color=”]
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
[/av_textblock]
[av_textblock size=’18’ font_color=” color=”]
WE CANNOT deny that some of us were enthusiastic of the one-day additional rest day. The nationwide transport strike was a blessing in disguise especially to students who are running out of time studying for their final exams.
However, I have friends who knew about the long weekend but didnāt know about the purpose or indication of it. I decided to write about yesterdayās transport strike to enlighten them and those who want to know more about it.
The issue started when the current administration initiated a phase-out program through the Department of Transportationās (DOTs) Omnibus Franchising Guidelines.
This program is designed to be the framework for the modernization of jeepneys. The purpose is to phase out old and dilapidated jeepneys to ensure the safety of the public transport. It aims to make the public transportation safe, reduce pollution and to move more people well.
The said guidelines will help the local government units (LGUs) to provide public-transport. Also, this will ensure that franchises will have safe, comfortable and environmentally sustainable vehicles. There will be expanded network that will connect routes and establishments. This way, travel time may decrease because the route is adjusted.
When it comes to drivers, they will be less exposed to air pollution and other health hazards. Drivers will have reduced working hours because the said guidelines will reduce traffic congestion. It will be safer for drivers as well as the passengers. This has also a good impact to the operators because this will reduce their expenses when it comes to cleaning, repairs, maintenance and fleet management.
I believe this is a feasible proposition because LGUs and other government agencies will collaborate to make this a success. Good news is that the existing franchises will continue to operate for the next two or three years upon the issuance of the guidelines. Jeepney operators can apply to new or modified routes in their local area. Also, colorumĀ vehicles will be given the chance to apply for franchises provided the moratorium in issuing franchises will be lifted.
I understand the difficulty of this scheme to drivers and operators but I believe the government wants only to provide a safe, efficient and affordable transportation system to the public.
The movement of drivers and operators yesterday was indeed a visible proof that they are against the said program or scheme. Thus, before this program becomes viable, I guess the government and the public should have a complete understanding on this matter. As long as the government will provide an efficient mode of transportation, traffic can be solved hopefully and will help drivers, operators, and the public.
(Atty. Ayin Dream D. Aplasca practices her profession in Iloilo City. She may be reached thru ayindream.aplasca@gmail.com/PN)
[/av_textblock]
[/av_one_full]
