YES, THERE are too many taxicabs in Iloilo City serving the transport needs of passengers – in fact, more than enough.
Residents, though, are looking for a more improved and quality transport service. And tourists, too. They frown on dilapidated taxicabs. From prestigious hotels, corporate executives and travelers have no choice but to take those old taxicabs with sometimes torn upholstery, and with drivers who may either be polite or arrogant, or smelling atrocious.
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A modern transport system they call TNVS or Transport Network Vehicle Services is operating in other cities like those in Metro Manila, in Bacolod and Cebu. Everyone seems to wonder there is no such transport system in Iloilo City.
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“When I’m in Bacolod, I take a very elegant car in the morning. Then I take a different SUV again in the afternoon, much better than taking a taxi since I pay almost just the same fare,” said an accountant.
“When I am in Iloilo City, sometimes I get a nice taxicab, sometimes not so clean,” he added.
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“Yes, TNVS is a livelihood opportunity for car owners. They could earn while paying for their amortization. I favor this kind of transport system, class ang mga kotse,” said a doctor.
“With limited parking spaces in hospitals, it is better that I take a TNVS private car going to my hospital clinic and back home,” he added.
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“Local governments must endorse and support the TNVS transport scheme. This must not be viewed as a competitor to existing taxicabs but a transport augmentation and another choice for passengers who want comfort, cleaner cars, and such,” said a bank manager.
“And this system is safe. The names of the drivers, the vehicles’ plate numbers and travel time are securely recorded in the app of your cellphone,” the doctor hastened to add.
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However, this system should avoid accepting groups that plan to invest in a brand new fleet of cars. This system should benefit those who already have cars, the doctor stressed.
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“I hope the local government is ready give special permits to tourism-oriented hotels and restaurants to serve beer and wine. The problem with liquor drinking is in the barangays, not special dining restaurants and hotels accredited by the Department of Tourism,” said the accountant.
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This column greets Troy Camarista, Carlo Treñas, Kim Jimenez, Evelyn Moriente, Nelson Polido, Rolando Dabao, Maui Espejo, Ray Tabafunda, Ping Jimenea, Richard Oquendo, Art Colmedora, and Rex Suplico./PN
