City officials recently asked public utility jeepney operators to comply with Ordinance 30, s. 2018 which sets the standard height of step boards PUJs plying the city.
In Resolution 738, s. 2023, the city council stated despite numerous efforts of the city government and concerned government agencies, it has been observed that some jeepneys are not strictly complying with Ordinance 30, s. 2018 to the disadvantage not only of the senior citizens but also the riding public.
During the Senior Citizens Official For-a-day (Scofad) session, the council adopted the proposal of Scofad councilor Lourdes C. Senen that reiterated the need to abide by the standard height of step boards for jeepneys’ and providing copies to barangay district representatives, jeepney associations and or jeepney transport cooperatives for their guidance.
Ordinance 30, s. 2018 set the standard height of step boards in PUJs for the convenience of passengers when boarding and alighting from the PUJs.
Article 18 of the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2011 provided that the minimum requirements and standards to make transportation facilities and utilities for public use accessible to senior citizens shall be developed to enhance the mobility of senior citizens.
It provides for the strict implementation of courtesy spaces and sets for the exclusive use of senior citizens in all transport systems.
The council said as far as practicable, PUJs should also also strive to install safe lower stepping boards for the convenience of the passengers.
Copies of the resolution will be transmitted to the concerned offices, barangays, jeepney associations, and cooperatives for their information, guidance, reference, and action. – PIO release
