By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Saying that China has already been incursing the West Philippine Sea, the country’s streets shouldn’t be flooded with imported modern jeepneys from China as part of the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program.
This was raised on Sunday (January 7) by the hard-hitting journalist-turned-Senator Raffy Tulfo who said the purchase of Chinese-made jeeps reeks of corruption since it costs less to produce modern jeepneys in the Philippines.
“Ang karagatan natin sa West Philippine Sea ay sinasakop na nga ng China, pati ba naman mga kalsada natin ay papayag tayong sasakupin na rin nila?!” Tulfo fumed.
He noted that imported jeepneys from China cost between P2.6 million to P2.9 million per unit, which is more expensive than a unit from local companies Sarao and Francisco Motors amounting between P900,000 to P985,000.
Tulfo stressed that the government will save an estimated P1.7 million per unit if a local manufacturer is chosen to produce modern jeepneys.
The senator also said buying from local manufacturers will boost job opportunities for Filipino workers.
Tulfo pointed out that patronizing local manufacturers would preserve the original style and iconic design of Philippine jeepneys which are already part of the Filipino culture.
(el Amigo/MNM)
