Toyota unveils modern jeepney prototype

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. (TMP) on Sunday presented the prototype of its Hilux unit in line with the government's public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP).

In a statement, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said TMP presented the Toyota Hilux modern PUV worth P998,000 each.

The units are said to be 12-seater vehicles, Euro 4 compliant, with CCTV, GPS, Wi-Fi, a dashcam, and is PWD-friendly.

"Ang Toyota Hilux Class 1 modern PUV ang magiging pambato ng TMPI para sa isinusulong na Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) ng gobyerno," the DOTr said.

"Para sa TMP, malugod nilang hinahandog ang Toyota Hilux Class 1 modern PUV at kumpyansa sila na malaki ang kanilang ma-iaambag sa pagsulong ng DOTr ng PUVMP dahil dito sa Hilux modern PUV," it added.

Launched in 2017, the PUVMP seeks to modernize jeepneys in the country, effectively phasing out those 15 years old and older.

According to the DOTr, the scheme seeks to limit the proliferation of colorum vehicles, and to ensure that all PUVs are Euro 4 compliant, and run on renewable energy.

But jeepney operators and drivers have opposed the project, saying that the government's requirements are too difficult and costly to obtain.

"Modernization is not expensive, provided that you make the right choice. There is always a cheaper alternative," claimed DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade. —Jon Viktor Cabuenas/LBG/KG, GMA News