Gov’t told: Modernize mass transport

Tan

Cebu’s business leaders called on the government to fasttrack mass transport system projects in Cebu in the wake of yesterday’s transport strike.

Glenn Soco, Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) president, said a modernized mass transport system in Cebu can complement the province’s economic growth.

The chamber president also said yesterday’s transport strike was unnecessary and counterproductive.

“(It) will affect our workers and our people. It will only aggravate the situation. If they just want to be heard, then much better they just talk it out with the government,” he told Cebu Daily News in a text message.

Ted Locson Jr., Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) vice president for external affairs, said the government should rationalize and fasttrack the mass transport system here.

He also said transport strikes are counterproductive since the transport groups have government franchises to operate and are thus mandated to serve the public.

Gordon Alan Joseph, Cebu Business Club (CBC) president, said a modern mass transport system should address the rising number of commuters, the worsening traffic and pollution.

“But the government must address the social issues involved: the re-training of affected drivers so they can have alternative career options, and the government must address the pollution issues of jeepneys younger than 15 years old,” he said.

Joseph said he believes jeepneys older that 10 years should be phased out and a total phase out should be achieved as modern mass transport alternatives are implemented.

“The keeper is a dinosaur. Our commuters deserve better,” Joseph said.

MCCI past president Philip Tan said political will is needed to carry out these reforms in the transport sector.

He said there is also a need for government to clean its ranks, especially within transport regulatory agencies.

“Inefficiency in government is also a problem. The government determines which vehicles are road-worthy, but there are still those that shouldn’t be out on the streets that are operating,” Tan said.

He said the public has already had enough and that it was time for government to step up.