Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 3) — Cebu City is now allowing traditional jeepneys to resume operations to help augment public transportation as the local economy continues to reopen amid the global health crisis.
Mayor Edgar Labella on Tuesday issued Executive Order No. 102 that contains the guidelines for the operations of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) under the new normal.
Labella said more routes will be opened depending on the performance of operators that were initially allowed to return to the road.
Currently, around 1,355 PUJs are being evaluated by local authorities, who will be given permit once they are seen to be compliant of the guidelines which include ensuring physical distancing through one-seat-apart scheme, and hand sanitation systems inside the vehicle.
Jeepney drivers are also required to undergo COVID-19 testing, Labella said.
As for passengers, wearing of masks and face shields is required, while fare will be paid before boarding. Talking and eating while on board are also prohibited.
In August, the city allowed operations of modern jeepneys and buses only when it eased to modified general community quarantine.
Local authorities said Cebu City has “flattened the curve” after a surge of infections in June.
According to latest data from the Health Department, the city has 10,506 COVID-19 cases, of which 146 are active, 9,693 are recoveries, and 667 are fatalities.
CNN Philippines’ Cebu Correspondent Dale Israel contributed to this report.
