BYAHE modern jeepneys have started to ply Pampanga roads on a scheduled dispatch system since January 21.
Anchored on the government’s Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) modernization program, Byahe founders envision a nationwide footprint that will ultimately bring safety and convenience to the riding public while pioneering a more organized and efficient public transportation sector.
“Byahe was born out of a dream and a vision: to pursue PUV modernization by professionalizing the services of jeepney drivers, and to finally make commuting more convenient, safer, and more affordable for the riding public,” Byahe co-founder Brian Cu said.
With the same vision of wanting to have a real and sustainable solution to mobility and traffic, Cu, along with some investors and experienced transportation, logistics, and fleet management experts, took over the management of On-Us Solutions Inc. in 2018. Together, they built the transport-focused division now called as Byahe.
In full compliance with the Omnibus Franchise Guidelines of the Department of Transportation and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Byahe positions itself as a corporate consolidator, bringing together the fragmented operators of the PUJ sector.
All modern jeepney operations are mandated to provide a fleet management system, virtually ending the archaic practice that creates traffic congestion and leaves a huge carbon footprint.
According to Cu, the best model for the PUVMP requires “the right management structure, experience, and financial capability.”
Similar to the PUV system implemented in first-world countries, Byahe will adopt a system in its operations having designated stops, to maximize the efficient use of existing road networks and capacity to solve traffic and transport issues.
The entire fleet will also be managed under an efficient technical platform that allows for cashless payments.
“This will ultimately benefit the commuting public. It will promote efficiency, convenience, and safety, as commuters will be able to organize their schedule and be assured of on-time transportation to and from their desired destinations,” Cu said.
Just as importantly, Byahe aims to professionalize the fragmented traditional jeepney sector, allowing for improved livelihood and opportunity for development most especially for drivers. Through a system that will be implemented by Byahe, drivers will be properly trained for values formation and will be paid with regular salaries.
“This means stable income for drivers and taxes for the government. The industry, once professionalized, will bring drivers to the formal economy, while operators of modernized fleets will be paying common carrier taxes,” Cu said.
“We thank, most especially, LTFRB Region Central Director Ahmed Cuizon, for welcoming this project in Pampanga. We will continue to work with the government in making the PUV modernization program -- through Byahe -- a success,” Cu added.
By February, Byahe will be launched in Metro Manila and throughout the year in major cities in the country.