Jeepney drivers hopeful they will pass roadworthiness test

Several jeepney drivers on Tuesday remained hopeful that their vehicles will be regarded as "roadworthy" by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and be allowed to ply the road anew.

According to Ivan Mayrina's report on "24 Oras," though driver Sonny Bernardo was excited of the chance to operate again, he was not sure if his jeepney will pass the test amid the government's apparent push to implement the jeepney modernization program.

"Ewan ko lang po 'yung sa kanila 'yung road worthy nila kung anong ibig sabihin. Parang ang gusto nilang itulak talaga 'yung bagong sasakyan nila na hindi naman ho namin kayang bilhin," Bernardo said.

Bernardo acknowledged that the outer appearance of his jeepney, which has a  case number of 2003, showed its age. The driver said that the jeepney  has been his partner in livelihood for a long time.

Should it be given a chance, Bernardo said his jeepney will still put up a fight.

To prove it, Bernardo showed that the engine can start with one click of the key.  Its lights are complete and functioning, and it did not emit black smoke.

"Kung 'yung road worthy naman 'yung pinag-uusapan, eh, puwede naman ho naming gawin 'yung kinakailangan gawin sa sasakyan bago bumyahe," Bernardo said.

The LFRB is still firming up the guidelines for the resumption of operation of the jeepneys, which have been sidelined for over three months since the quarantine began. The guidelines are expected to be released on Wednesday, which may include inspection by the Land Transportation Authority.

Bernardo said he hopes to return on the road t make a living.

"'Wag naman kaming tanggalin sa lansangan. Nakapag-paaral ako ng kapatid ko. Ngayon, mga anak ko, dahil sa jeep lang ho, kaya... at saka itong jeep na ito ay hanap-buhay naming marangal," he said. —Joahna Lei Casilao/LDF, GMA News