21 traditional jeeps allowed to ply routes in Hagonoy, Bulacan

Twenty-one traditional jeepneys with routes from Hagonoy to Malolos Crossing have been given special permits to operate by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Region III.

In James Agustin's report on "24 Oras," jeepney driver Ogie Faustino stressed the importance of being allowed to be back on the road, saying that he driving has been his source of living for many years.  During lockdown, he managed to survive by selling food.

"Kahit papaano ngayon nakaka survive kasi kahit papaano kumikita nang kaunti. Kaya napakahalaga sa amin 'yung makabyahe kami nang maayos," Faustino said.

Because of social distancing, only 12 passengers may board the jeepney from the previous 24. Due to this, his previous P800 profit has also been cut by half.

Before boarding, passengers' body temperature was checked.  Their names and addresses were also recorded.

According to the LTFRB, traditional jeepneys were allowed to operate in some areas under general community quarantine. 

"Maraming rehiyon ng Pilipinas kung saan 'yung status ng mga lugar nila ay GCQ na. Ibig ko sabihin, 'yung mga lugar ng Davao, Iloilo, Tacloban, Baguio, Bulacan, nagbubukas na po tayo at pinapagayan," chariman Martin Delgra III said.

"Pero kailangan susundin natin 'yung mga polisiya na 'yan pagdating sa pagbubukas ng public transport," he added. —Joahna Lei Casilao/LDF, GMA News