Speaker backs Pinoy-made modern jeepneys, vows stronger support for transport modernization

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has reaffirmed his commitment to the country’s public transportation modernization program, throwing his full support behind local manufacturers and Filipino-made modern traditional and electric jeepneys.

“Yayayain natin ang mga kongresista na suportahan natin ang locally-made (modern jeepneys) at electric-powered utility vehicles,” the leader of the 306-strong House of Representatives said.

Romualdez met with Francisco Motors Corporation executives —Chairman Elmer Francisco and President & CEO Dominic Francisco — and transport group leaders during a modern jeepney showcase held at the Main Wing of the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City Saturday afternoon. 

The event spotlighted the revival of the iconic Filipino jeepney, redesigned to meet the demands of a modern, efficient and environmentally sustainable public transport system.

Speaker Romualdez tested passenger experience in both variants of the modern jeepney and inspected their features, demonstrating his readiness to push policies that ensure modernization efforts move forward without leaving Filipino workers and local industries behind.

“Modernization isn’t just about new vehicles — it’s about improving the daily lives of drivers and passengers. These jeepneys are safer, more efficient, and better for the environment,” Speaker Romualdez said after inspecting and test-driving one of the modernized units.

“The jeepney has long been a symbol of Filipino ingenuity. As we modernize, we must preserve its cultural value while making it more responsive to today’s needs,” he pointed out.

The traditional Francisco Passenger Jeepney (FPJ) powered by a EURO4-compliant diesel engine and the fully-electric Pinoy Transporter showcased Sunday features air-conditioning, CCTV, right-side entry, as well as emergency backdoor exit or access for persons with disability.

Driving inclusive growth

The House chief underscored the critical role of local vehicle manufacturers not only in modernizing the country’s transport system but also in driving inclusive economic growth.

Elmer Francisco estimated that 250,000 units of new public utility vehicles would be needed under the Jeepney Modernization Program initiated and implemented under the previous administration. 

Speaker Romualdez emphasized that backing companies like Francisco Motors helps generate jobs, support communities and reduce dependence on imported vehicles, which many transport cooperatives purchased to comply with modernization regulations. 

“Supporting local businesses is key to building a strong economy. When we invest in Filipino-made products, we invest in our people,” Speaker Romualdez said.

Francisco also noted that government support for local vehicle manufacturers would spur the growth of related local industries such as spare parts manufacturing, creating thousands of jobs. 

He said locally-made modern jeeps can also be sold much cheaper than imported units with proper support from the government, like duty-free importation of raw materials and capital equipment, and zero-rated VAT for locally-purchased and imported raw materials, among others. 

“Saka yun pong gawa dito matibay, yun nga pong jeep ko mahigit 30 taon na tumatakbo pa rin ng maayos. Yun pong imported balita namin kahit tatlong taon pa lang me mga problema na,” said Ely Villena, president of PISTON-National Capital Region.

The Speaker pledged to work with Congress to ensure greater budget allocations for the transportation modernization program, including support mechanisms for drivers and operators affected by the transition.

“As Speaker, I am committed to securing more funding to help modernize our transport system while protecting livelihoods and the environment,” he stressed.