MAYOR Edgardo Labella has approved the initial resumption of operations of 1,355 traditional public utility jeepneys in Cebu City.
Labella’s executive order states that the resumption of traditional jeepney operations covers 18 routes from 10 barangays in Cebu City: Guadalupe, Lahug, Tisa, Basak San Nicolas, Labangon, Mambaling, Talamban, Inayawan, Bulacao and Kalunasan.
The approval was based on the recommendation of the Cebu City Jeepney Task Force, which was formed for the Balik Pasada Program.
The program was conceptualized to solve the growing demand for public transportation with the strict observance of the minimum health protocol and the traffic regulations.
The selection of the routes was based on data from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in Central Visayas. These routes are catering to the highest volume of passengers in Cebu City.
However, before a traditional jeepney is allowed to operate, it must undergo and pass the motor vehicle inspection through the Land Transportation Office Motor Vehicle Inspection System.
A traditional jeepney driver must also secure an updated travel line from the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO).
Operators are required to apply for and be issued a special permit by the LTFRB and the Cebu City Jeepney Balik Pasada.
Before getting a green light to drive, traditional jeepney drivers should secure a professional driver’s license, a negative Covid-19 test result, and undergo the CCTO’s driver’s orientation and training.
Labella’s order
Labella’s executive order also mandates the strict enforcement of the following health guidelines:
* Physical distancing, minimum one seat apart for passengers;
* Proper wearing of mask at all times inside traditional jeepneys;
* Wearing of face shield at all times inside traditional jeepney;
* Paying the fare before taking the ride;
* Practicing hand sanitation before entering the traditional jeepney;
* No talking inside and no eating inside the jeepney;
* Implementing a continuous/open-air ventilation; and
* Observing a regular traditional jeepney unit sanitation and disinfection. (MVG)