BY JOEL C. ESCOL
The Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), aimed at enhancing the country’s mass public transportation, faces a major challenge due to the high costs associated with modernized jeepneys, exceeding a million pesos each.
As part of the initiative, older jeepneys, UV express, and buses aged over 15 years will be phased out, making way for Euro-4 compliant vehicles. This aligns with the government’s objective of establishing a “more dignified [and] humane” transportation system.
To address cost concerns, Francisco Motors, a prominent jeepney manufacturer, introduced the “Francisco Jeepney,” an e-jeepney priced at P985,000. This significantly undercuts the proposed cost range of P1.3 million to P3 million for modern e-jeeps. According to Elmer Francisco, the owner of Francisco Motors, the reduced cost is attributed to local production, emphasizing that every component is manufactured in the Philippines, contributing to job creation.
Francisco envisions building a Special Economic Zone for electric jeep production, with a potential annual output of up to 25,000 units. The company pledges to abandon diesel-powered jeepneys in favor of full electric models to modernize, counter escalating fuel prices, and address climate change concerns. Francisco Motors plans to establish nationwide charging stations powered by renewable energy.
Elmer Francisco believes this transition will not only create job opportunities for Filipinos but also uphold the iconic ‘King of the Road’ appearance of traditional jeepneys. Despite partnering with Tembo E-LV for electric utility vehicle electrification kits, Francisco asserts that the classic design will be retained to preserve Filipino culture.
The Francisco Jeepney boasts features such as an electronic door, a ramp for PWDs and senior citizens, air conditioning, CCTV, GPS, and an Automated Fare Collection System. Passengers can conveniently pay through QR codes or NFC cards. With a seating capacity of 30, the e-jeepney ensures a comfortable standing experience for passengers up to 5’9″ tall.
Francisco Motors Corporation offers the electricity-powered modernized traditional jeepney at a competitive price of P985,000, presenting a more affordable alternative compared to other modern models. Drivers and operators have the option to avail the jeepney with a P50,000 down payment, payable through installments. Additionally, a government equity subsidy of P280,000 can be deducted from the balance. Elmer Francisco emphasizes the cultural significance of jeepneys and questions the necessity of replacing them with foreign mini-buses, highlighting their unique identity and appeal to foreigners.
