DRIVING THOUGHTS
In the Philippines, transportation is both a lifeline and a source of daily frustration. Jeepneys and tricycles, iconic as they are, have long been the go-to mode of transport for millions of Filipinos. And with the entry of electric vehicles (EVs), E-trikes with two, three, and four wheels have joined the competition for road space causing more frustration to daily commuters and motorists.
Spicing up the swarming vehicles on our limited road space are the motorcycles whose numbers have increased by leaps and bounds, we do not need to mention a figure to illustrate that point. Only last weekend, another road rage case erupted from the battle for road space, resulting in the death of one and injury of three persons from gunshot wounds. The videos on that encounter, plus those that have surfaced from the dashcams of vehicles following the motorcycle and the SUV tell another sad story. Road rage can be caused not by waiting too long in crawling traffic, but also by unconventional risky maneuvers.
Education on road use needed
I will not add to the volumes of comments on that road rage incident in Antipolo. I mentioned it only as a contributing problem to a population still unprepared for sustainable urban mobility. Much education is needed by all who are road users, especially the new ones who are now driving e-trikes like they are four-wheel vehicles. We are all sharing road space, and to do this successfully, rules have to be followed. Number one rule is to be aware of one’s lane and when to overtake.
We need to do this fast. As urban populations swell and environmental concerns mount, these traditional vehicles can no longer meet the demands of a modern, sustainable city. It’s time for the country to embrace a future of sustainable urban mobility, one that prioritizes the health of its citizens and the environment.
Environmental impact and safety
Jeepneys, tricycles, and motorcycles have been integral to the Philippine landscape for decades. Their colorful designs and cultural significance make them much more than just modes of transport—they’re part of the country’s identity. Yet, their environmental impact is undeniable. Jeepneys, for example, are often outdated and run on diesel, contributing significantly to air pollution in highly congested areas like Metro Manila. Likewise, tricycles, commonly used in more rural areas, emit smoke and contribute to environmental degradation. Motorcycles that have been cleverly converted to carry passengers, like children to school, are not safe on the highways.
The traffic gridlocks that plague cities like Manila are another consequence of an aging and inefficient transportation system. The lack of dedicated lanes, coupled with the dominance of jeepneys, tricycles and motorcycles on the roads, results in inefficient transport, longer commute times, and an overall decline in quality of life for urban dwellers.
A shift toward sustainable urban mobility is not just an environmental imperative — it’s a social and economic necessity. Modern cities worldwide are moving toward cleaner, more efficient transportation solutions to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and lower carbon emissions.
One of the most pressing needs is a focus on public transport systems that are both efficient and eco-friendly. The government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) is a step in the right direction, aiming to replace old jeepneys with electric vehicles (EVs) and more efficient public transport options. The shift to electric jeepneys and buses could significantly reduce emissions, making the air cleaner for everyone.
Beyond EVs, cities need to embrace integrated, multimodal transport systems. This means improving metro rail systems like the MRT, LRT, and expanding bus networks, making them more accessible, affordable, and reliable. But it also means creating safer streets for bicycles and pedestrians, as well as promoting car-sharing and ride-hailing services that reduce the need for individual car ownership.
Sustainable urban transport system
A modern, sustainable urban transport system is one where different modes of transport work in harmony—where buses, trains, e-bikes, and shared vehicles are seamlessly integrated to offer residents a wide range of convenient and low-carbon options. This reduces dependency on private vehicles, helping ease congestion and reducing pollution.
While the shift toward sustainable mobility is vital, it is not without challenges. For one, the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) in the public transport sector requires significant investment in infrastructure, such as charging stations and the retrofitting of older vehicles.
Moreover, many commuters rely on jeepneys and tricycles because they are affordable, accessible, and cater to a wide range of routes, particularly in underserved areas. For private transport, the motorcycle presents an affordable option to commute to work or school because public transportation is inconvenient and unreliable.
The challenge lies in replacing these modes of transport without alienating or financially burdening the drivers and passengers who depend on them. The government must ensure that the transition is inclusive, providing subsidies or incentives to drivers who need to upgrade their vehicles and support for communities that depend on them.
