MPTC TO OPERATE MODERN JEEPNEYS, EVS IN CEBU, DAVAO

A Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) unit aims to deploy modern jeepneys and electric vehicles (EVs) outside Luzon in the next five years, in line with its fleet expansion plan.

Modern jeepney operator Byahe, a firm owned by the Pangilinan-led company, divulged its plans for opening routes in Cebu and Davao after having already established a presence in Metro Manila and Region 3.

Laurence Bahia, Byahe CEO, said in a recent event in Quezon City they were looking to spend about P1.5 billion to buy 500 new units. It currently has 30 units plying eight routes across Metro Manila, Pampanga and Cabanatuan.

With the acquisition of more vehicles, the official said they were aiming to have a total of 35 routes by 2027.

“We have investors who are very keen on EVs. They are also looking at a path to sustainability,” he said.

Using EVs could reduce carbon emissions on the road, Bahia said, noting that an EV unit translates to carbon dioxide absorption of 700 trees.

Byahe also offers its drivers fixed monthly salaries to ensure a regular stream of revenues. These drivers earn about P24,000 net take-home salary per month, which includes the overtime payment to rake in more than the minimum wage.

“What we’ve realized is that if it is just at minimum [wage], they would look for another job. Transportation is not just running vehicles. It is also human resources. We have to take good care of the drivers,” he said.

Byahe collects a minimum fare of P13 per passenger.

Bahia added that “Byahe will modernize not only the vehicles but also the way public transport is operated.”

Byahe—founded by IP Ventures CEO Enrique Gonzalez and former Grab Philippines CEO Brian Cu—is a platform that aims to make public transportation services network sustainable by connecting jeepney operators, creditors, jeepney manufacturers, government and commuters.