In Iloilo, a powerful symphony of voices resonates from the Provincial Capitol to various strike centers across the city.
A diverse coalition, including impassioned university students, has gathered to articulate their concerns against the impending Jeepney Phaseout.
The government, through the Department of Transportation (DOTr), has announced that December 31, 2023 is the franchise deadline. Small jeepney drivers and operators have to consolidate and join the government’s modernization program, which would eventually phase out the traditional jeepneys.
The PUV modernization program started in 2017 to replace diesel-powered jeepneys with vehicles that are Euro 4-compliant to reduce pollution. Militant and conservative jeepney organizations in Metro Manila have launched a series of strikes to fight this policy.
In Iloilo, the echo of dissent reverberates through significant strike centers such as Infante Flyover, Ungka Terminal, and Tagbak Terminal, symbolizing a community's shared resistance against a policy that threatens to reshape not just transportation but the very essence of Iloilo's identity.
Jeepneys are not mere vehicles traversing Iloilo's streets but are integral to the city's cultural identity. These iconic vehicles' vibrant colors and distinct designs tell stories of tradition, resilience, and a shared cultural heritage.
The collective assembly at the Provincial Capitol and the designated strike centers is not just a defense of a mode of transport but a valiant effort to preserve a piece of Iloilo's living history. It's a declaration that the community values its cultural richness and refuses to let it be sacrificed at the altar of modernity.
The presence of university students in the gathering exemplifies the power of youth activism.
Often considered the torchbearers of change, these students have taken a stand for themselves and the entire community. Their participation emphasizes that the Jeepney Phaseout is not merely an issue of transportation logistics but a matter that touches the lives of every Ilonggo, present and future. It's an inspiring testament to the responsibility these students feel towards shaping the end of their city.
At the heart of the protest lies a chorus of concerns that extends far beyond the noise of the gathered crowd. The potential economic repercussions on Jeepney drivers and operators, the strain on the pocketbooks of everyday commuters, and the possible erosion of a deeply rooted communal identity are among the keynotes in this symphony of dissent.
The protest is a plea for a more inclusive decision-making process that incorporates the diverse perspectives of those who will be directly impacted.
The strike locations—Infante Flyover, Ungka Terminal, and Tagbak Terminal—are not just points on a map; they are symbolic spaces where the collective heartbeat of Iloilo resounds. The protesters are not merely voicing their concerns but calling for dialogue. The call for open conversation appeals to policymakers to listen, understand, and actively engage with the community. It's a plea to avoid abrupt policies that risk displacing a community's way of life without consideration.
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