Modern jeeps may resume Pavia operation any time

A fleet of MetroExpress’ modernized Isuzu PUVs. These fully-air-conditioned modern Isuzu PUVs – the first in Western Visayas – are PWD-friendly (persons with disability) and are equipped with upgraded features, such as automated fare collection system, CCTV, WiFi, GPS (global positioning system), and television monitors.

ILOILO City – Modern jeepneys of Metro Express Connect, Inc. may resume their operation from the transport terminal in Pavia, Iloilo to Oton, Iloilo any time, according to Pavia Sangguniang Bayan (SB) member Jose Maria Trimañez.

Local governments have no authority to suspend the operation of public utility vehicles, said Trimañez, citing the position of Director Richard Osmeña of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Region 6 during a recent consultation.

The chairperson of the SB committee on transportation dismissed previous reports that it was the local government of Pavia that halted Metro Express’ operation in the municipality.

Metro Express voluntarily stopped its operation in Pavia pending its accreditation with the committee on transportation, said Trimañez.

To secure accreditation, a transport entity must submit, among others, a business permit, company profile, route plan, and franchise.

Trimañez, however, clarified that even without an accreditation, Metro Express jeepneys may still operate in Pavia.

In going to Oton, Metro Express jeepneys passed by the following Pavia barangays: Ungka II, Ungka I, Aganan, Pandac, Balabag, and Hibao-an.

Metro Express jeepneys started operating on July 31 but later voluntarily halted temporarily its Pavia route until it had secured accreditation.

Trimañez welcomed Metro Express’ decision.

“Again, wala kami nagabalag. Dapat lang sundon ang tsakto nga proseso kag mag-coordinate sa LGU,” he stressed.

Jojit Dueñas, operations head of Metro Express, said they would resume their Pavia operation soon.

“I have submitted all documents required by the Sangguniang Bayan. I’m just waiting for a favorable response,” he said.

Metro Express’ modern jeepneys are equipped with the following:

* security cameras

* WiFi

* Global Positioning System

* automatic fare collection system

* television monitors

* air-conditioning

Looking more like small school buses than the traditional passenger jeepneys, the modern jeepneys are also “friendly” to persons with disabilities.

SOURCE: Panay News

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