End of the Road: Moral and Ethical Considerations in the Challenges of
Jeepney Drivers and Commuters in the Face of Modernization
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for
PHILO 200: Ethics
Submitted by:
PANGATO, Mikaella A.
PAPAYA, Donniel Gavin D.
PIYAO, Jannine Pritz R.
July 18, 2024
END OF THE ROAD: MORAL AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS… 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Cover page………………………………………………………………………….……. 1
Table of Contents…………………………………………………………………….….. 2
Chapter I: Introduction……………..…………………………………..……….……..… 3
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Background of the Study………………………………………………………… 3
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Statement of the Problem……………………………………………………….. 5
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Objective of the Study……………………………………………………….…… 5
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Assumption of the Study……………………………………………………….… 6
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Significance of the Study………………………………………………………… 6
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Definition of Terms………………………………………………………………... 7
Chapter II: Related Literature and Studies…………………………….……………..... 9
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Financial Burdens on Drivers……………………………………………………. 9
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Livelihood of Drivers……………………………………………………………… 9
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Well-being of both Drivers and Commuters……………………………………. 10
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Efficient Transportation……………………………………………………..….... 10
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Fare Hikes………………………………………………………………...………. 11
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Government Support Programs………………………………………………… 11
Social Justice of Drivers………….……………………………………………… 11
Chapter III: Interpretation and Analysis………………………………………………... 13
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Ethical Interpretation and Analysis of the PUVMP........................................ 13
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Ethical Relativism in the Context of the PUVMP in the Philippines…..…….. 13
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Utilitarian Perspectives on the Societal Benefits of the PUVMP.................... 14
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Assessing Autonomy and Dignity in Policy Implementation as Kantians’
Ethics.………………………………………………………………….................. 14
Understanding the Philippines' Jeepney Phase-Out Policy through Aristotle's ​
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Ethical Theory…………………………………………………………………..... 14
Chapter IV: Summary, Conclusions, Recommendations………….………….……… 15
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Summary………….………….………….………….………….………….……… 15
Conclusions………….………….………….………….………….………….…... 16
Recommendations………….………….………….………….………….………. 16
Researchers’ Personal Critical Reflections………….………….…………….. 17
Chapter V: Bibliography
References……..…………………………...………...…..………….………….. 20
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CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
A.​ Background of the Study
Public transportation is extensively utilized by community members for
commuting to various destinations. It can carry more passengers compared to
private cars, and its widespread availability has notably contributed to the rise in
carbon emissions. According to Cruz (2024) in the Philippines, jeepneys
(approximately 200,000 nationwide) are the most dominant form of public transport,
accounting for around 40% of all motorized person trips in the Philippines, or
estimated 40 million person trips/day. Furthermore, Ong et al. (2023) determined that
public transportation, such as jeepneys, is more commonly used in developing
countries due to economic considerations. Jeepneys, buses, light rail transit, and
ride-hailing services are among the most frequent modes of transportation in the
Philippines. The jeepney has been an integral component of the Philippine
transportation system since its establishment, especially in urban and rural areas
where it serves as the primary means of public transportation (Andalecio et al.,
2020). Because of its affordability and accessibility, the jeepney is a popular mode of
transportation among commuters, particularly those with limited financial resources. ​
​
​
As the Philippines pushed toward modernization, the Department of
Transportation introduced a new program called the Public Utility Vehicle
Modernization Program (PUVMP) through Department Order No. 2017-011 under
the Duterte government in 2017. The Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program
(PUVMP) was called to be implemented to make the Philippine transportation
system more efficient, safer, and environmentally friendly. Under the pretext of the
environmental damages and safety concerns caused by the traditional jeepneys, the
modernization program also entails its phaseout and replacing them with imported
modern jeepneys.
Regarding these issues, the Philippines' Public Utility Modernization Program
(PUVMP) aimed to revolutionize public transportation by providing ecologically
friendly and safer passenger vehicles (Manila, 2024). Car ownership in the
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Philippines reached 16% between 2007 and 2012, while motorcycle ownership
increased by 69%, making the Philippines the fastest-growing market for vehicles
and motorbikes by 2014. Despite this, traditional jeepneys continue to have a high
ridership. Traditional jeepney drivers, on the other hand, are opposed to modern
jeepneys due to their high cost, and commuters share this sentiment. According to
the interview, the driver has no problem with updating public transit. However, the
program is thought to be anti-poor and profit-oriented (Westerman, 2018).
With the Philippine government's transition from iconic jeepneys to modern
mini buses, jeepney drivers dispute that the new vehicles are too expensive and that
the government lacks financial support for the program. Jeepney drivers argue that
the cost for the modern mini buses are out of reach hence it requires them to take on
heavy loans. They also express reluctance to the mandatory joining of cooperatives
as a requirement for financial assistance (Magramo, 2024). Under the Public Utility
Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), drivers who are unable to afford new
PUVs and haven't joined a cooperative face impoundment of their vehicles, a
potential fine of ₱50,000, and a one-year license suspension (Relativo, 2024). Bernal
and Koh (2023) added the fear of jeepney drivers losing their source of income. The
high cost of new vehicles, exceeding $43,000 each, makes them unaffordable for
many drivers. Additionally, the shift from independent owner-operators to cooperative
employees raises concerns about income security and potential disqualification for
some drivers due to age restrictions. The Public Utility Vehicle Modernization
Program (PUVMP) impact extends beyond drivers, as low-income commuters may
struggle to afford the fare increases likely to accompany the introduction of more
comfortable but pricier modern jeepneys.
As a result, the study aimed to investigate the moral and ethical
considerations of Filipino life expressed in this vehicle are explored by investigating
the experiences, interactions, and observations of persons who travel jeepneys on a
regular basis.
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B.​ Statement of the Problem
Jeepneys have always been a staple in Filipino public transportation for
decades (Alegado & Calonzo, 2020). However, the traditional jeepney has long been
criticized for its obsolete and unsafe design (Mendoza, 2023). In response to these
concerns, the Philippine government has launched the Public Utility Vehicle
Modernization Program (PUVMP) to replace traditional jeepneys with more
eco-friendly and efficient models. However, this poses significant moral and ethical
challenges for both jeepney drivers and commuters in the Philippines. Thus, the
research aimed to understand and gather a comprehensive picture of the challenges
faced by jeepney drivers and commuters surrounding the jeepney modernization. By
exploring these challenges, the research aimed to collect insights that can inform
Philippine policymakers on how they can implement the
Public Utility Vehicle
Modernization Program (PUVMP) in a way that balances progress with ethical
considerations for both jeepney drivers and commuters.
Specifically, this study aims to answer the following questions:
1.​ What are the potential ethical and moral consequences faced by jeepney
drivers due to jeepney modernization in terms of:
a.​ financial burdens
b.​ livelihood
c.​ well-being
2.​ What are the potential ethical and moral concerns for commuters due to
jeepney modernization regarding:
a.​ fare increases
b.​ efficient transportation
C. Objective of the Study​
​
​
This study aims to gather insights on the implementation of the Public Utility
Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) by focusing on the lived experiences of
jeepney drivers and commuters in urban areas of the Philippines. It seeks to identify
the ethical and moral consequences faced by jeepney drivers, such as financial
burdens, livelihood impacts, and well-being, as well as the concerns for commuters
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regarding fare increases and transportation efficiency. By collecting insights from
relevant figures and authorities, the research will contextualize and highlight the
moral and ethical considerations of the issue. The findings will contribute to informing
the Philippine government and policymakers about the ethical implications of the
Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, aiding them in making more informed
decisions.
D. Assumption of the Study
​
The following was assumed in the study:
1.​ The researchers assumed that the Modernization of Jeepney would raise
ethical concerns for both drivers and commuters regarding social justice and
economic equity.
2.​ The researchers assumed that financial stress and job insecurity significantly
impact the well-being of jeepney drivers. It is assumed that most jeepney
drivers have limited financial resources and may struggle to afford
modernization costs.
3.​ The researchers assumed that commuter fares will increase as a result of
PUMP's implementation. This assumption implies that the increased
operational expenses associated with modernized vehicles are passed on to
commuters, affecting the affordability and accessibility of public transit.
E. Significance of the Study
This study is conducted to explore the challenges faced by both jeepney drivers and
commuters to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ethical considerations
surrounding jeepney modernization.
The findings of this study are relevant to the following stakeholders:
Jeepney Drivers. The modernization of jeepneys presents ethical and moral
dilemmas for jeepney drivers, who are directly impacted by this change. This
research empowers them by highlighting their struggles and understanding their
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concerns regarding potential negative consequences for their livelihood and way of
life. This can also help strengthen the arguments for government support programs
to the modernization plan that consider the well-being of the drivers.
Commuters. This research explores how commuters are potentially affected by the
jeepney modernization program. It also allows them to gain a deeper understanding
of the complexities of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program and have
their concerns heard. Acknowledging these concerns can help policymakers develop
solutions that minimize inconvenience, ensure continued public transportation
accessibility and improve overall commuting experience for Filipino commuters.
Policy Makers. The Philippine government's goals for the Public Utility Vehicle
Modernization Program focus on improving transportation efficiency, sustainability,
and safety. However, the high cost of modernization presents potential challenges for
both jeepney drivers and commuters. By recognizing the moral and ethical
considerations, this research can contribute to creating policies that balance the
government's modernization goals with the welfare of both drivers and commuters.
Developing a just and equitable approach to the program's implementation and
minimize negative impacts on all stakeholders is crucial.
Future Researchers. Researchers can utilize the study’s findings as a foundation
for further research on exploring the potential impact of jeepney modernization to the
jeepney drivers and commuters. This also allows them to explore additional and
more specific aspects in relation to transportation modernization.
F. Definition of Terms
The following terms were operationally defined for better understanding of the
readers:
Commuters. A person who travels some distance to work on a regular basis
and uses public transportation. They typically live from the suburbs to the city
between their place of residence and their workplace. It is a diverse group of
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Filipinos, predominantly lower-income, who rely on jeepneys as an essential part of
their transportation and livelihood.
Drivers. Particularly jeepney drivers, whose source of livelihood is driving the
people to different destinations in a specified route. A person who operates a public
utility jeepney, which is a popular mode of public transportation in the Philippines.
Livelihood. This refers to the means of supporting oneself, typically through
employment, business, or other income-generating activities that sustain basic
needs, and quality of life. It is a job, occupation, and other source of income that
allows someone to earn money and pay for their basic needs like food, housing and
clothing.
Modernization. It is the process of adapting something to modern needs or
habits. The process in which the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program where
traditional jeepney vehicles are to be replaced with modern minibus.
Transportation. The movement of people using various modes such as
jeepney within urban areas of the Philippines. The service that jeepney drivers serve
to the Filipinos since the past years after World War II. Also the service that the
government is aiming to improve — through the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization
Program.
End of the Road. A phrase that signifies the final ending of the process or
reaching a critical point. A euphemism for the replacing of old jeepneys with newer,
more environmentally friendly, and safer models which may signal the end for
traditional jeepneys.
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CHAPTER II
RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter presents the related and relevant literature and studies that the
researcher considered in strengthening the moral and ethical considerations of the
present study. It also presents the synthesis of the art to fully understand the
research for better comprehension of the study.
Financial burdens on drivers. The majority of jeepney drivers and operators
cannot afford the ₱2.4–₱2.8 million cost of a modernized jeepney, which forces them
to take out loans with minimum monthly installments of ₱20,000 over a ten-year
period. Since they must achieve daily quotas otherwise earn even less, drivers of
modern jeepneys report making substantially less money per day—roughly
₱700–₱4,000—than drivers of traditional jeepneys, which makes it difficult for them
to sustain their families and pay their loans (Castillon, 2023). In addition, By forcibly
seizing franchises and making funding programs inaccessible, the program's rules
may allow corporations to seize control of small-capacity public transit in the
Philippines. Routes previously served by jeepney operators and drivers who are
unable to finance modernization or who have gone bankrupt due to loans for new
jeepneys may be taken over by corporations (Bautista & Moya, 2023). Fortunately, a
lot of jeepney operators and drivers are having financial difficulties making ends
meet due to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program's financial burden. In
order to lessen the impact on their livelihoods, transportation organizations are
advocating for a more gradual transition with additional funding choices and
subsidies.
Livelihood of drivers. The Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program presents a
significant challenge to jeepney drivers' livelihoods. The high cost of new vehicles,
hovering around $50,000 each, creates a major affordability barrier. This concerns
them as they cannot afford it and this will put on burdensome loans, potentially
leading to debt and hampering their financial security. Then, some may even be not
qualified to work under cooperatives, particularly older individuals, due to age
restrictions. This can also result in loss of independence as they would no longer be
independent
owners
but
instead
employees
of
cooperatives
(Magramo,
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2024).Adding to their worries, even drivers who join cooperatives risk losing their
franchises if the cooperative decides to operate their route (GMA News, 2023). A
recent article by Lago (2024) mentioned that the jeepney phaseout program hurts
the poor. The program calls for inclusive modernization and potential job losses.
They fear that transitioning from owning their own jeepneys to working for
cooperatives could lead to lower earnings. In addition to the high cost burden of the
Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, a 2023 article by Cordillera Peoples
Alliance criticizes the program's lack of transparency. The article alleges the
government did not adequately consult with jeepney drivers before finalizing the
plan. By April 30, 2024, jeepneys that did not become cooperatives are deemed
"colorum" and are subject to government impoundment (Relativo, 2024). As a result,
thousands of jeepneys have been stopped, leaving some passengers stranded.
Well-being of both drivers and commuters. Commuting can have a significant
impact on an individual's wellbeing. Studies have found that commuting is associated
with lower mood and higher stress levels compared to other daily activities
(Chatterjee et al., 2019). In the Philippines, jeepneys are a popular choice among
commuters because of their affordability, convenience, and cultural significance.
According to Vicente and Reis (2016) the sociodemographic characteristics of
commuters, such as age, gender, personal income, or occupation, also influence
their preferences. Although some factors are common among various demographic
profiles such as Asian or underdeveloped countries, deliberate behavior regarding
transportation preferences are distinct. Preference can also be influenced by public
transit availability, accessibility, and quality of service.
Efficient transportation. The commuters will bear the financial weight of jeepney
modernization. The cost of the modernization contradicts the purpose of students
and minimum wage-earner commuters where they rely on jeepneys because of its
affordability (Dimalanta et al). According to Pante, 2016, as cited in Dimalanta et al.,
n.d., one in five of Metro Manila commuters depend on jeepneys for their daily travel.
They offer affordability, easy access along routes, convenience, and the flexibility to
navigate busy streets (Dimalanta et al n.d.). Commuters' access to public
transportation is threatened by the limited number of modern jeepneys where it
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cannot handle the current passenger volume. This shortage could lead to longer wait
times and even more crowded commuting experiences (Lanzagarita, 2023).
Fare Hikes. Jeepney fare hikes are often linked to modernization efforts such as the
Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. As the government's modernization
programs aim to replace old jeepneys with the more modern models, these new
vehicles usually come at a higher cost for operators, making it necessary for fare
adjustments in the future in order to cover these expenses. Negatively affecting
drivers and operators and increasing financial strain on commuters (Africa, 2024).
The fare hike may not be immediate. As it may resemble what occurred with water
privatization, wherein water rates were kept low for a couple of years then suddenly
peaked after three to five years. It is entirely possible that fares will be kept low at
₱15 or ₱25 for the first three to five years. However, in five years or more, it may
reach ₱45 to ₱50 (Relativo, 2024).
Government Support Programs. Given the challenges faced by drivers, operators
and commuters in the midst of the modernization imposed by the Public Utility
Vehicle Modernization Program, the Philippine government has given out subsidies
from ₱80,000 - ₱160,000 in order to aid operators and drivers. However these
subsidies only cover 5% - 10% of the total cost of a modern jeepney (Lago, 2024).
Furthermore, access to these programs and subsidies are restricted only to
cooperatives who have obtained a franchise from the Land Transportation
Franchising and Regulatory Board. Under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization
Program, jeepney drivers and operators must surrender their individual franchise
and consolidate them into a single franchise by registering with the Land
Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in order to avail of the loans and
subsidies. Due to this, a number operators and drivers cannot access the loans due
to their inability to register with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory
Board due to the extensive prerequisites in order to register (Bautista & Moya, 2023).
Leaving some operators and drivers without due compensation, overwhelmed by
unmanageable costs possibly leading to debt (Lago, 2024).
Social Justice of Drivers. Köhler et al. (2019) have identified justice and ethics as
an important agenda of research in sustainability transition. According to Sovacool et
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al. (2019) that the body of evidence in mobility transitions has generally not been
normative or critical in the sense of deeper consideration of the deeper ethical and
moral issues that arise from the transition. The jeepney phase-out raises serious
concerns around social justice, as it threatens the livelihoods of drivers, the cultural
identity of the country, and the affordability and accessibility of public transportation
for low-income communities (Dychangco, 2023).
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CHAPTER III
INTERPRETATION AND ANALYSIS
​
This chapter includes the researchers’ critical, objective and logical
understanding of facts and data. The phase-out of jeepneys is a complex issue that
affects social justice, culture, safety, the environment, and livelihood.
Ethical Interpretation and Analysis of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization
Program (PUVMP). The researchers utilized an ethical lens to analyze the morality
of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), using its meaning,
nature, and scope which provides valuable and considerable context to the situation.
The utilization of ethical principles and theories can be extremely helpful in
discerning the morality of such a multifaceted topic such as the modernization of
public transport. Ethical concepts such as Ethics versus Law can also be applied to
the situation, wherein what is legal is not necessarily ethical. This statement applies
to the situation since the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP)
may be imposed legally by lawmakers and government officials, however there
exists multiple ethical considerations and challenges that arise regarding this idssue.
The researchers also utilized the concept of Moral Accountability which uses the
determinants of human acts in order to fully understand the concept in relation to the
topic. There are several relevant determinants particularly; the object of the act, the
motive and the circumstances. All of these factors determine morality therefore all of
these determinants contribute to the moral and ethical challenges of the Public
Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. Wherein the intention and object are
benevolent, however the circumstances heavily affect the morality of the act.
Ethical Relativism in the Context of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization
Program (PUVMP) in the Philippines. Ethical Relativism refers to the idea that
morality is relative to specific cultures, contexts, or individuals. In the Philippines,
where jeepneys are ingrained in the culture and crucial to the public transportation
system, ethical relativism plays a significant role in how modernization efforts are
being perceived. Ethical Relativism also acknowledges that the value and meaning
attributed to jeepneys may vary across cultures and individuals. In this context,
certain individuals may argue that preserving traditional jeepneys is ethically justified
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to maintain cultural heritage and identity. On the other hand, ethical relativism also
recognizes the importance of environmental stewardship, sustainability, progress
and change.
Utilitarian Perspectives on the Societal Benefits of the Public Utility Vehicle
Modernization Program (PUVMP). In the Utilitarian approach, phasing out
jeepneys can be viewed as a measure that maximizes societal well-being. The
government's
strategy
involves
replacing
outdated,
less
efficient,
and
environmentally harmful jeepneys with newer and more advanced vehicles. This
initiative targets enhancements in air quality, traffic flow, and overall commuting
comfort. Furthermore, the modernization plan includes subsidies and financing
options to assist jeepney operators in purchasing new vehicles, potentially
enhancing their livelihoods and income.
Assessing Autonomy and Dignity in Policy Implementation as Kantians’
Ethics. From a Kantian perspective, the jeepney phase-out could be seen as a
policy that fails to respect the autonomy and dignity of jeepney drivers and operators.
By requiring them to acquire new vehicles or face losing their livelihoods, the
government may be treating them merely as means to an end, rather than as ends in
themselves. This could be seen as a violation of the categorical imperative, which
states that we should act in ways that we would want to become universal laws.
Understanding the Philippines' Jeepney Phase-Out Policy through Aristotle's
Ethical Theory. The Philippines' phase-out of the jeepney policy can be better
understood in light of Aristotle's idea of the Golden Mean, which holds that virtue
exists in the center of two extremes. The two extremes can be conceptualized as
follows: on one end, maintaining the status quo and permitting old jeepneys to
operate indefinitely would perpetuate pollution and inefficiency. On the opposite end,
abruptly banning all jeepneys without providing a viable alternative could significantly
disrupt transportation services and adversely affect both drivers and commuters.
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CHAPTER IV
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Presented in this chapter is the summary of the study. It begins with an
overview of the entire study; followed by the conclusions derived from the findings;
and lastly, the recommendations made to improve practices.
Summary
This study examines the ethical implications of the Philippine Jeepney
Modernization Program for drivers and commuters. Researchers analyzed the
financial burdens, livelihood concerns, and well-being of drivers, fare increases, and
transportation efficiency for commuters the program may cause. The goal of the
study is to identify ethical challenges that can inform policymakers to create a more
balanced modernization plan. While the program aims to improve the environment
and public transport, ethical concerns arise. These include financial strain on drivers,
threats to their livelihood and well-being, and potential fare hikes for commuters, with
uncertain improvements in efficiency. By gathering related literature, the researchers
analyzed the jeepney modernization program through various ethical lenses.
Between ethics versus law, what is legal is not always ethical. The Philippine
Jeepney Modernization Program may be imposed legally but it as well as arise
unethical consequences. Utilitarianism considers societal benefits like environmental
improvement, while Kantian Ethics highlights the program's potential disregard for
driver autonomy. Regarding ethical relativism, it acknowledged the cultural
significance of jeepneys while valuing environmental responsibility. Then, Aristotle’s
idea of the Golden Mean under Virtue Ethics emphasizes finding a balance between
progress and ethical considerations, which the current program seems to lack. Given
the gathered related literature and analysis of the researchers, the assumptions of
the study are supported by the finding where the researchers assumed due to the
jeepney modernization, the drivers’ are affected in their financial burdens, livelihood
and their well-being and fare hikes and transportation efficiency concerns for the
commuters.
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Conclusion
Based on the results of the study, the following conclusions are derived:
The jeepney modernization in the Philippines aimed to improve public
transportation into eco-friendly and efficient public transport, raising ethical concerns
for drivers and commuters. This concern then highlights the ethical concept of the
difference between legal and ethical actions where what is legal is now necessarily
ethical. Drivers face financial burdens due to the high cost of new vehicles,
potentially leading to debt and threatening their livelihood through job loss or a shift
from independent ownership to cooperative employment as well as a decline in the
well-being of the drivers. This program depicts utilitarianism which aimed to benefit
society with improved transportation and environment, however, under the Kantian
ethics, it disrespects jeepney drivers' autonomy in complying with the Public Utility
Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP). Thus, it also negatively affects the
well-being of the drivers and commuters who rely on jeepneys for affordability. Fare
increases also strain their finances. Since many jeepney drivers struggle to comply
with the program, a shortage of modern jeepneys might lead to crowded commutes
and longer waiting times. The program also failed to consider the cultural
significance of jeepneys in relation to ethical relativism. Ultimately, the challenges
faced by drivers and commuters prevent the program from achieving the golden
mean in virtue ethics, where progress should be balanced with ethical considerations
for all stakeholders.
Recommendation
Based on the interpretation and analysis presented in the study, the
researchers have proposed the following recommendations to ensure the well-being
of commuters and drivers while promoting progress and development in the
transportation sector:
Philippine Government. The Philippine government and policymakers should
prioritize the development of a more inclusive and socially responsible approach to
public transport modernization. This could include: Increased financial support
END OF THE ROAD: MORAL AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS… 17
through subsidies to make modernization more affordable for operators and drivers,
livelihood security programs that support unemployed drivers who lost their jobs due
to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), and a more gradual
implementation of the program to ease the transition for drivers and minimize
disruption for commuters. Through these considerations and suggestions, the
Philippine government can implement the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization
Program (PUVMP) in a way that promotes sustainability, equity, and accessibility for
all Philippine citizens.
Suggestions for Future Researchers. Future researchers should examine the
ethical considerations of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP)
on a deeper, more analytical scale in order to fully explore and contextualize the
problems faced by jeepney drivers and commuters in the Philippines. Future
researchers can also explore this topic under a qualitative or quantitative lens to gain
more timely and accurate statistics from those affected by the Public Utility Vehicle
Modernization Program.
REFLECTION
Pangato, Mikaella A.​
​
As someone who just recently learned how to commute through jeepneys, my
knowledge about jeepney modernization was limited. But as I explored this issue, I
gained various insights and understood as to why people debate about this concern.
The Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) indeed has a noble goal
in improving the environmental impact of old jeepneys; however the program's
ethical concerns outweigh its good intention. Many jeepney drivers struggle to
comply with the program due to its high costs thus giving threats to their financial
and livelihood which then leads to decline in their well-being. Thinking about the
benefits often comes with cons. From a Utilitarian perspective, the program provides
overall societal benefits with its goal on environmental improvement. But, Kantian
Ethics points out the program's disregard for drivers’ autonomy, making it seem
disrespectful. As for the commuters who rely on jeepneys for affordability, they might
also struggle with the changes in the possibility of fair hikes and having limited
END OF THE ROAD: MORAL AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS… 18
number of new vehicles, transportation efficiency is affected. With all these
challenges of both drivers and commuters, the program shows lack of Virtue ethics
where they fail to balance the program's progress with its ethical concerns. Hence,
this research can aid the policymakers in addressing the Public Utility Vehicle
Modernization Program’s (PUVMP) shortcomings in creating a more balanced
approach. Gradual Implementation, livelihood security programs and increased
financial support can achieve a more inclusive approach where both jeepneys and
commuters’ well-being are prioritized while implementing the program. As for the
future researchers, they could delve deeper into the ethical issues faced by jeepney
drivers and commuters to consider different aspects aside from those included in this
study.
Papaya, Donniel Gavin D.​
​
Studying the ethical implications of the Philippine Jeepney Modernization
Program (PUVMP) has been truly eye opening. While reading about this topic I
realized a lot of things about morality and how it is tied to things that surround us
daily such as jeepneys. I learned that even simple things have several layers of
complex ethical considerations that we need to identify. For example the PUVMP,
while the program aims to upgrade public transportation and enhance environmental
sustainability, it also brings forth significant ethical dilemmas. The clash between
what is legally mandated and what is ethical serves as an important reminder that
legality doesn't always equate to morality. The potential impacts on jeepney drivers'
livelihoods, their sense of autonomy, and the deep cultural significance of jeepneys
themselves underscore the necessity for a more thoughtful approach to policy
making. Striking a balance between societal progress and ethical considerations, as
explored through perspectives like utilitarianism and virtue ethics, emphasizes the
importance of fair solutions that honor environmental objectives while respecting the
rights of all those involved. This study serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate
challenges in achieving sustainable development while upholding ethical integrity
and equity for everyone affected.
Piyao, Jannine Pritz R.
I've been a commuter for many years, and commuting every day, especially
during rush hour, is difficult. The jeepney phase-out has both positive and negative
END OF THE ROAD: MORAL AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS… 19
aspects. On the positive side, the modernized jeepneys are supposed to be more
environmentally friendly, releasing fewer pollutants than older smoke-belching
models. However, there are several limitations, particularly in terms of cost and
accessibility. The jeepney phase-out in the Philippines raises several ethical
concerns that need to be carefully considered. From a virtue ethics perspective, the
emphasis should be on cultivating virtues like compassion, fairness, and practical
wisdom when making decisions that impact the lives of jeepney drivers and
commuters. One of the main ethical issues is the potential harm to the livelihoods of
jeepney drivers. The cost of replacing traditional jeepneys with modernized vehicles
is prohibitively high; it is over ten times the price of a traditional jeepney. The drivers
suffer the financial cost of this, as many of them are already trying to make ends
meet. It has been said that the government's loan and subsidy schemes are
insufficient to help with the transition. It requires a balanced approach that considers
the needs and concerns of the drivers. Also, for the commuters with many jeepneys
being phased out, there are fewer vehicles available to transport a large number of
commuters, especially those living in areas not well-served by other modes of public
transit. This has led to longer waiting times and overcrowding on the remaining
jeepneys and other public utility vehicles. Moreover, From an ethical standpoint, this
raises concerns about the right to access affordable public services, which is
especially important for marginalized communities.
END OF THE ROAD: MORAL AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS… 20
CHAPTER V
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