No to Jeepney Phaseout

Riding a jeepney is a part of our life as Filipinos. For most of us, this is the
primary mode of transportation used to get to our destination. That is why I disagree
with the removal of the jeepney. It's unusual for me to see no jeepneys on the road.

I believe that our government should not completely remove the iconic jeepney
from our roads for their objective of modernizing the public transportation system. The
word “Jeepney” is called the King of the Road here in the Philippines. They are
considered the backbone of public transportation in our country. Jeepneys are well-
known for their distinctive characteristics and designs that reflect Philippine culture.

While modernization is inevitable, rather than completely eliminating jeepneys

from our roads, why not change, improve, and modernize them in such a way that they
still ensure the safety and comfort of both passengers and drivers while retaining the
traditional look of our very own jeepneys? The issue of phasing out jeepneys not only
revolves around transportation; it also involves issues of livelihood, social,
environmental, and cultural aspects. Every issue has both positive and negative,
supporters and critics but it is evident that the issue concerning jeepney modernization
has both pros and cons As a result, in this paper, I'd like to express my opinion and
concern about the jeepney phaseout.

As a Filipino citizen who is a student and a regular commuter, I disagree with the
jeepney phaseout. Although, through modernizing our transportation, one of the goals is
to reduce the pollution level produced by jeepneys, and improve safety for both drivers
and commuters. On the other hand, one of the impacts of the jeepney phaseout is the
high cost of modernizing jeepneys, it is expensive. Many people will lose their jobs,
especially the affected drivers, wherein it is their livelihood to support their families on a
daily basis. One of the worries of those affected by this issue is a lack of government
support. The government has not provided enough financial assistance and support to
jeepney drivers to assist them in transitioning to modern vehicles.  In addition, based on
my experience riding modern jeepneys, passenger safety, and comfort are not
guaranteed because some drivers and conductors are abusive. Even when the modern
jeep is full, they insist on allowing passengers to ride, resulting in a crowded and difficult
to get off in the vehicle.

In conclusion, the success of the jeepney modernization plan will be determined

by the extent of government assistance granted to jeepney drivers and their desire to
modify their vehicles. Notwithstanding the outcome, it is certain that the jeepney will
continue to play a significant role in the Philippines' transportation system in the future.
Finally, I would say yes to modernization but no to the jeepney phaseout.