It is an unusual sight for many to see Ivana Alawi boarding a traditional jeepney, where she is more commonly seen riding in her car. In recent days, the lengthy discussions and strikes by jeepney drivers and operators against the government’s jeepney modernization program have been unavoidable. One of the main reasons is the excessively high price of modern jeepneys, which can reach millions of pesos, making it insufficient for drivers to afford them daily.
In December, the deadline for traditional jeepney drivers to continue operating ended, but President Marcos granted an extension for several months. The camp of former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis Chavit Singson also stated that there would be a “Hulugang E-jeepney” with a zero-interest plan to assist jeepney drivers and operators in acquiring their modern jeepneys.
Some local manufacturers have also showcased their designs for modern jeepneys, but some have noticed a preference for Chinese-made ones over locally-made ones, although there has been no official statement from the government regarding this matter.
Despite the Jeepney Modernization program, Ivana shows her support for those affected by the program. By boarding a traditional jeepney, she expresses her support for the drivers affected by the modernization program.
SPOTTED | Ivana Alawi, natagpuang nakasay sa jeepney!
— Panday Sining PUP (@PandaySiningPUP) February 13, 2024
Them: Ano ba yan influencer nakasakay sa jeep, 'di ba dapat naka-kotse yan?
Ivana Alawi: Ako, support ako sa mga drivers, kaya nga tayo andito (sa jeep) eh!
Tugon: Mother!#NoToPUVModernization #NoToPUVPhaseout pic.twitter.com/n6ctceidSZ
In this way, she not only shows support for jeepney drivers but also lends her voice to the issue of jeepney modernization, which continues to affect many Filipinos.