Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) formally turned over 15 modernized PUVs to MetroExpress Connect Inc. (MCI) in Bataan.
The turnover ceremony was held at the parking grounds of Vista Mall Bataan in Balanga, the capital city of the province.
The 15 modernized PUVs have been assembled using the Isuzu QKR77 platform, with the rear body designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corp. They are all air-conditioned Class 2 PUVs with a side-facing seat configuration. The QKR platform is assembled in the Philippines and is equipped with Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC Diesel Engine that delivers excellent fuel economy.
The new PUV body is also compliant with Philippine National Standards (PNS 2126:2017), with the passenger cabin providing more space for passengers to move easily inside. The passenger door is safely situated on the right-hand side, facing the sidewalk. Other design features of the body include panoramic windows and windshields, full-body insulation, and automatic door closer.
“The government has been very forward-looking in the planning and implementation of the PUVMP. We are about to make history because what was once the historical jeepney will now be historically reinvented. And I am very happy to note that the modern PUVs you see here will become the new normal in the Philippine public transport system,” said Ahmed Cuizon, director, LTFRB Region 3
Cuizon also reminded other groups to speed their modernization program noting that they only have until June 2020 to finish or otherwise have their franchises revoked.
“They have to step up their modernization efforts between now and June 30, 2020. Otherwise, their franchises and routes will be given to those who can provide modernized PUVs to the riding public. In the seven provinces of Region 3, where Bataan belongs, we project up to 30,000 jeepneys need to be modernized by that time,” Cuizon said.
Meanwhile IPC assistant sales division head Hiroto Nakaguro expressed the company’s gratitude to the “growing number of transport groups, such as MCI, who trust the Isuzu brand and are confident that Isuzu will be able to help serve their community.”