New PUV operator takes lead in modernizing PH public transport system

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 22) – A new public utility operator that seeks to contribute to a more organized and efficient public transportation sector in the country was launched on Thursday.

BYAHE initially rolled out its seven modern jeepneys in San Fernando City, Pampanga, operating on a scheduled dispatch system where there will be designated stops that could solve traffic and transport issues.

Brian Cu, co-founder of BYAHE, told CNN Philippines on Friday they are anchored on a system-wide perspective in lending its hand to modernize the country’s mass transport system. He added they are hoping to change the traditional route-based operations of plying jeepneys.

“It’s only then that you can really optimize how these jeeps move and maximize the movement of people, which is ultimately the goal of creating a freedom of movement at jeepney fare prices that are the lowest in the world,” said Cu, who was a former executive in a ride-hailing transport firm.

As safety became a priority in commuting in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, BYAHE’s entire fleet will be managed under an efficient technical platform that allows for cashless payments.

Cu added that BYAHE also aims to professionalize the fragmented traditional jeepney sector, allowing improved livelihood and opportunity for the drivers’ development through values formation training, and having regular salaries.

He said their scheme hopes to upgrade from the boundary system for jeepney drivers, which contributes to the high volume of traffic in Metro Manila because of too many jeeps in a single route and many drivers waiting to fill their units in the middle of the road.

“Joining a modern company like BYAHE gives the drivers fixed income and incentives based on certain metrics they need to hit like plying the entire route and making certain stops at certain times. It creates a more standardized and discipline approach to transportation that I think our country sorely needs,” Cu said.

BYAHE plans to launch in Metro Manila and other major cities in the country this February. Cu said they are initially planning to deploy five units each in five routes in these areas.