By Tracy Cabrera

ILOILO CITY, Panay — Focusing on the challenges facing the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), particularly on the financial constraints experienced by most PUV operators and drivers, former Ilocos Sur governor and now senatorial aspirant Luis ‘Chavit’ Singson has launched his e-jeep program that would provide zero-interest loans to those who need funds to modernize their PUVs.

At the recent Western Visayas Transport Summit in Iloilo City, the former Ilocos Sur governor traveled to the city to meet with officers and members of the Western Visayas Alliance of Transport Cooperatives and Corporations, Incorporated (WVATCCI) to discuss a better approach to the challenge of implementing the PUVMP through a ‘win-win’ strategy that would benefit all concerned, especially the low-income public utility drivers (PUDs) who lack the capacity to fund the modernization of their passenger vehicles.

At the same, Singson shared how his involvement in the government’s transport modernization effort began even before he officially entered the Senate race.

Acknowledging that the PUVMP was a well-intentioned initiative, he pointed out that its financial model was impractical for many drivers, particularly those without access to bank loans or the financial literacy to navigate the system.

“When I saw the challenges faced by drivers, I knew there had to be a better way. Many of them could not afford the loans or had limited access to banking services. That’s when I decided I would personally fund the transition,” the ex-governor enthused.

To address this, Singson said, he is pledging to provide zero-interest loans to jeepney operators in order to effectively remove the financial constraints that is keeping many from participating in the program.

And Singson’s solution goes beyond just offering financial support because he has vowed full commitment to the PUVMP by providing electric jeepneys (e-jeeps) that are not only more affordable but also environmentally friendly.

“The fleet features state-of-the-art technology, including air-conditioning systems for passenger comfort and solar charging stations to promote energy efficiency. To make the transition even more financially feasible, there will be discounted electricity rates at the solar charging stations, which will help reduce the operational costs for jeepney owners,” he explained.

Moreover, the move is aligned with the national government’s broader environmental goals which aims to cut down the carbon footprint of public transportation and promote sustainable energy sources.

“Modernizing the fleet is not only about providing better vehicles but also about contributing to a greener, more sustainable future,” the senatorial aspirant pointed out.

“It also requires taking steps to address the challenge of financial inclusion for both jeepney drivers and passengers.”

To solve this, Singson introduced VBank, a digital payment platform linked to his Vigan Rural Banco Incorporada which will provide users with a preloaded card that has a ₱100,000 limit that could be used to pay for jeepney fares and even send money to family members through the associated mobile banking app.

In ending, Singson cited that his support for the PUV modernization effort is deeply rooted in his experience as a local government executive which gave him the know-how in serving his constituents as a mayor and eventually governor and congressman of Ilocos Sur. However, his vision of public service extends far beyond his province.

“I am content with the progress in my province, but I want to see this kind of development reach every corner of the Philippines. My (political) platform is focused on nationwide progress. If we can modernize transportation in a way that works for everyone—from the drivers to the passengers—we can create a stronger, more equitable nation,” he concluded.