King of the Road's Royal Transformation: A Descriptive Analysis of the Jeepney Modernization Program on the Lens of Public Utility Jeepney Drivers in Laurel, Batangas

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Jeepneys are the most common and national mode of transportation in the Philippines. The undeniable dependency of Filipinos to the said kind of transportation has unquestionably contributed to the problems we are facing today such as air pollution. Hence, the Department of Transportation came up with implementing the Jeepney Modernization Program that aims to meet safety, energy efficiency and emission standards by revamping jeepneys. As much as the environment and the passengers will be benefited by the said program, the drivers who are making a living through their jeepneys will surely be as affected. In this study, we recognized the insights of jeepney drivers on the Jeepney Modernization Program that may pave the way on finding solutions to the problems encountered by the government, passengers and especially Jeepney drivers throughout the implementation of the said program.

METHODS

A descriptive qualitative method of research was used where an interview with Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) drivers in Laurel, Batangas was used as the data collection method. Through purposive sampling, 3 PUJ drivers answered researcher-made questions and served as the primary source of information. The qualitative approach of analyzing the data gathered focused on identifying and describing the Jeepney Modernization Program as perceived by jeepney drivers.

RESULTS

The jeepney drivers who participated in this study perceived the Jeepney Modernization Program as the transformation of jeepney units that will help in resolving jeepney-related problems. Despite their awareness, they expressed their disagreement on modernizing jeepneys because of financial reasons like a large amount of money is needed, it is unaffordable for most of the jeepney drivers and will most likely lead them to have additional expenses. The PUJ drivers chose to keep on using the accustomed jeepney structure and just have jeepney repair and maintenance instead of fully-transforming public utility jeepneys. Amidst all of this, jeepney drivers are hoping for assistance from the government throughout the implementation of the Jeepney Modernization Program.

DISCUSSIONS

The results demonstrate the need to review the Jeepney Modernization Program to be able to implement it successfully and have the jeepney drivers cooperate in the said program. The government shall hear the doubts and worries of jeepney drivers who will be directly affected by the Jeepney Modernization Program. Hence, all the problems regarding its implementation will be erased.