Philippines’ Jeepneys get set for new avatar

Manila’s public transport system literally comes in different shapes and sizes as this writer found out during a recent visit to the capital of the Philippines. What really stands out in this landscape is the multi-seater jeepney.

Introduced back in the 1940s, after World War II, as a public-utility vehicle or PUV, the jeepney was intended as a cheaper alternative to taxis. “We have grown commuting in this vehicle. This has become an inseparable identity of Manila,” says a long-term loyalist to this writer on a jeepney drive.

Its owner, 32-year-old Jacob, has no doubts about the fact that it is the “most credible and affordable” mode of transport for people. The minimum fare of a jeepney ride is PHP 9 (around ₹12) for up to four km. It can carry up 20-25 people comfortably.

According to an unconfirmed estimate, there are about 2,00,000-odd jeepneys operating in the Philippines. However, not everything is hunky-dory for this PUV. The government has gone in for safer and cleaner public transport, which will see the fuel-guzzling jeepney soon yanked off the roads.

The good news for commuters is that the Department of Transportation has allowed 15-year-old jeepneys to operate till 2020 if they are found road-worthy. On the face of it, this is just a temporary reprieve and this popular mode of transport could eventually bow out.

The Philippines is no different from other countries in seeking cleaner fuel options and this is where electric transport systems will play a key role. Last year, the largest jeepney maker, Sarao Motors, inked an agreement with electric vehicle maker, Le’ Guider International. This will see manufacturing of jeepneys powered by cleaner electric-motors. The first e-jeepney, GP Sarao EJ-12, was unveiled in April 2018 with a seating capacity of 20.

Going forward, the Philippines will see a massive rollout of e-jeepneys as Sarao draws up plans to manufacture them at its seven-hectare facility in Las Pinas. This has an annual capacity of about 6,00,000 units. Big global brands like Hyundai have jumped into the fray to replace the traditional jeepneys with more modern mass transport vehicles. The Department of Transport had showcased one such offering last year, which can seat 23 passengers.

Beyond the jeepney, the other popular mass transport option in the Philippines is the three-wheeled motorcycle (called tricycles) where three passengers can pool in a ride. It is more than evident that the urbanisation challenge in the Philippines is common to many countries in Asia, which are coming up with a host of mobility options. Indian cities are facing similar issues and shared taxis have quickly stepped into the picture to help ease the pressure on public transport.

It is a common sight to see the Tata Magic play out its part in some cities in India where commuters can move from one point to another in an affordable ride. Goa has motorcycle taxis, which are a huge boon to tourists and local residents. More upmarket options like Uber and Ola are only gaining in popularity across India as a section of the travelling public is steering clear of the car ownership route.

The reality of crowded cities as a result of urbanisation will see auto-makers offer a host of mobility solutions, which can navigate their way around quickly. Bajaj Auto has recently launched its Qute quadricycle in India while Yamaha has its three-wheeled Tricity operating in some countries. Whether it will make its way to India remains to be seen.

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