YOU’VE probably already seen them by now, if not in person – plying one of their three new routes – maybe online, from the viral Facebook posts: The jeepneys of the future have landed in Iloilo City.
Modern jeepneys started servicing Ilonggos on July 31 as Las Piñas-based MetroExpress Connect, Inc. officially sent off 15 innovative vehicles to venture three new routes – connecting major Iloilo terminals to Vista Mall Iloilo in Brgy. Pulo Maestra Vita, Oton.
These fully-air-conditioned MetroExpress modernized jeepneys – the first in Western Visayas – are PWD-friendly (persons with disability) and are equipped with upgraded features, such an automated fare collection system, surveillance cameras, WiFi, GPS (global positioning system), and television monitors.
The modernized jeepneys are designed to offer a cashless payment experience, outfitted with an automated fare collection system powered by the Prime Tap Card, a reloadable prepaid card that a passenger can simply tap on a screen near the jeepney’s entrance to pay for fare.
The Prime Tap Card is available at payment kiosks in all of the three destination terminals above and Vista Mall Iloilo. But for the first few weeks of operation – while the Ilonggo riding public is still adjusting to the new system – MetroExpress jeepneys will be accepting cash payments before going fully cashless, said one of its executives.
The modernized jeepneys will transport the commuting public to and from the following destinations on the these routes: 1) Vista Mall Iloilo to Mohon Terminal via Circumferential Road 1, 2) Vista Mall Iloilo to Pavia Terminal via F. Gorriceta Jr. Avenue, and 3) Vista Mall Iloilo to New Ceres Terminal in Jaro via Circumferential Road 1.
Now, you’re probably asking: Can I hail or “make para” these new and improved jeepneys? Of course you can, as long as you follow the proper loading and unloading zones of the city, passengers are allowed to hail these modern vehicles along their routes to hitch a ride.
I also have to share my own personal experience. I’m extremely thankful because MetroExpress has cut my commute time by nearly half. I live in Tagbak, Jaro and Panay News’ office is in Pavia. It usually took me an hour to get to the office in the mornings, and at least an hour and a half to get home at peak hour in the late afternoons, but now – with the new Ceres Terminal to Vista Mall route – I can make a one-way journey in just 30 to 45 minutes. No more “Hunger Games”-“Mad Max” tulakan with other passengers scenarios near Jaro Plaza for me.
These innovative modernized jeepneys are the product of the cooperation and partnership of vehicle manufacturer Isuzu Philippines, leading bus body manufacturer Almazora Motors Corporation, ePrime Business Solutions’ contactless payment technology Prime Tap Card, Vista Malls, and Vista Land & Lifescapes, Inc.
MetroExpress aims to lead the transport community in using state-of-the-art facilities and providing a safer and more comfortable and environmentally-friendly commute.
Boasting cutting-edge technology, these modern passenger jeepneys – which resemble airport shuttles – promise comfort and added safety to IIonggos./PN
