MANILA -- Electric jeepneys were first introduced in the country in 2008, and was seen as an alternative to the classic mode of transportation used by the people. But a better version of the e-jeepney will be used in Quezon City by May, according to Pasang Masda (Pangkalahatang Sanggunian Manila and Suburbs Drivers Association Nationwide) national president Roberto “Ka Obet” L. Martin. The COMET or City Optimized Managed Electric Transport e-Jeepney will have safety features such as two closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. One of the cameras will show the driver, through a small screen on the dashboard, what is happening behind him, while the other camera will take snapshots of all passengers once they board the jeep. Aside from the CCTV cameras, the e-jeep also has an LED television screen and free wi-fi access for the passengers. Passengers also wouldn't have to pay their fares directly to the driver, for the e-jeep will have a tap in-tap out system. Using a preloaded card, the passengers would only need to tap their card on the reader before boarding. They would then tap their card again before they get off the jeep. E-jeepney drivers will also get to have a monthly salary of about P15,000 to P18,000, Martin said, adding that they will be providing the drivers with health and insurance benefits. Failon Ngayon, ABS-CBN, April 5, 2014
