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Thursday July 5, 10:00 AM
Electric-Powered Jeepneys Launched in Philippines' Makati CityMANILA, July 5 Asia Pulse - A historic drive test of the first electric-powered jeepneys was launched Wednesday in Makati City by the Green Renewable Independent Power Producer (GRIPP), Greenpeace and the Makati City government. "The electric jeepney demonstrates how cities can help mitigate the problem of climate change. It is encouraging to see pioneering cities like Makati take the initiative in implementing measures that would avoid the use of climate change-inducing fossil fuels," said Greenpeace Southeast Asia Campaigns Director Von Hernandez.
"It is clear that, in addressing solid waste and air pollution issues, and in offering a much cheaper fuel alternative to jeepney drivers who service the city's main routes, the project will result in clear, tangible benefits for Makati citizens," said Makati Mayor Jejomar C. Binay. The two electric jeepneys are part of a fleet designed in the country by Philippine renewables firm Solar Electric Company. They will undergo technical and commercial tests for six months in Makati City and eventually in key areas in the province of Negros Occidental. The electric fleet will be increased to 50 units upon the successful conclusion of the test phase. Also, as stated in the project's MOA (memorandum of agreement), the city will provide a facility that will generate power from the biodegradable wastes from the city's food establishments and wet markets into which the Electric Jeepneys are meant to be plugged. "The Electric Jeepneys aim to demonstrate that there are climate-friendly alternatives to the current polluting modes of public transportation in the Philippines. "The iconic jeepney remains, but without wasteful and carbon emitting diesel, and while providing increased incomes to the vehicles' drivers," said Athena Ballestros Ronquillo, founder and chair of GRIPP, the lead proponent of the E-Jeepneys initiative. "The pilot test in Makati is meant to ensure the technical, commercial, environmental and social feasibility of the project. If the project is successful, our hope is that the project will be replicated in other cities in the country and possibly other Asian capitals," she added. Rallying for the project were celebrities and Greenpeace supporters in showbiz like Angel Aquino, Amanda Griffin and Raya Mananquil. Lupin stellar star Richard Gutierrez of GMA-7 also graced the occasion along with officials of Makati's transport cooperatives. (PNA)
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