Members of the Piston transport group staged a protest along EDSA Monumento on Tuesday morning to remind the government anew of its promised cash aid and to call for the resumption of their road services.
The group also expressed concern on the possible total phase out of the traditional jeepneys on the road for good.
“Ngayon 2020, ginagamit ng pamahalaan itong pandemya upang iratsada ang napipintong phase out sa mga lumang jeep (This 2020, the government is using the pandemic to expedite the pending phase out of old jeepneys),” Piston Deputy Secretary General Ruben Baylon said.
The DOTr denied the claims and explained the prolonged pause in jeepney operations is not connected with the phase out program of the government.
It added that enforcing health protocols inside jeepneys has been a subject of exhaustive discussion for the sake and safety of commuters.
The LTFRB said they understand the side of jeepney drivers and has already asked the DSWD to prioritize cash assistance to jeepney drivers in the second tranche of the SAP payout.
