IN COMPLIANCE to the safety protocols set by the Inter-Agency Task Force, the City Government of San Fernando, in partnership with local transport groups, on Tuesday, May 5, bared the new pattern for public utility jeepneys (PUJs) which will resume operations once the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) is lifted in the province.

The City Public Order and Safety Coordinating Office (CPOSCO) launched the prototype for PUJs which features one-meter markers and plastic covers to separate passengers from each other.

According to CPOSCO Head Louie Clemente, PUJs are allowed to ferry only 50 percent of their total capacity, or about 10 passengers, to ensure observance of physical distancing.

“If the transition of ECQ to general community quarantine will push through on May 15, resumption of public transport system will be allowed but on reduced capacity so we have prepared our PUJs in the city in this kind of setup,” Clemente said.

Through strict observance of physical distancing in public places, Clemente said the spread of virus will be prevented despite the easing of lockdown.

“To protect ourselves from this deadly virus, we must accept and practice the new normal which is observing the health and safety protocols wherever we are,” he said.