BY ALEXANDRIA SAN JUAN
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THE list of routes for conventional public utility jeepneys (PUJs) is expected to be released this weekend prior to its scheduled resumption of operations in the capital region next week, a transport official said on Friday.
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Martin Delgra III said they are finalizing the routes for traditional jeepneys in Metro Manila to allow them back on the road after almost three months of suspension due to the pandemic.
“As I have said, inaayos na namin ngayong araw at kung hindi makaya, bukas, Saturday, ay malalaman na ang ruta ng mga traditional jeepney. Abangan ninyo na lang po ang anunsyo,” Delgra mentioned in an interview.
Meanwhile, an initial 30 routes will be opened for UV Express units which were given by the LTFRB a go signal to ferry commuters beginning Monday, June 29, Delgra added.
“Sa Lunes magsisimula na mag-operate ang mga UV Express. Last night, ang aming technical team ay tinitingnan pa rin ang mga ruta na pwedeng buksan but we are looking at 30 routes to be opened initially,” he explained.
“Within the same week, mag-ooperate ang mga ito (UV Express and traditional PUJs). Ang target natin magsisimula sa Lunes ang mga UV Express, then susunod ang traditional jeepneys,” the LTFRB chief said, noting that there is still no exact date for PUJs as routes are still being finalized.
Over the week, the LTFRB has allowed modernized PUJs to resume and ply along 34 routes in the Greater Manila area in addition to other modes of public transport that have been operating at limited capacity since the implementation of a more relaxed general community quarantine last June 1.
