Crime Fighting Takes a Fresh Turn as Public Utility Jeepney Partners With Local Police

MANILA: We have already seen a new compact sized Jeepney at the Manila International Auto Show, which might revolutionize the future of public transport in Metro Manila. But it seems that the most loved mode of public commute in the country is certainly trying hard to revamp its image and become more public friendly. Yes, PUJ (Public Utility Jeepney) is all set to become a crime fighting vehicle according to the newest program initiated by the the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO). This is certainly a serious change in the way public transport is viewed in the country’s capital by curbing petty crimes in public transport vehicles and responsible driving.

Named as ‘Lambat-Sibat’, the new program by Manila Police department is supported by all major transport authorities such as Federation of Jeepney Operators and Driver Association of the Philippines (this is just the beginning of a list of awkwardly long names so bear with us), League Transport Operations of the Philippines, Alliance Transport Operators Drivers Association of the Philippines, League Transport Operations of the Philippines, Alliance of Concern Transport Organization and PASANG MASDA (phew!). These associations have provided several volunteers to the crime-fighting public utility vehicle driver program who have been officially named as Lambat-Sibat Volunteers or LSVs.

The LSVs will not only be the designated drivers for several Public Utility Jeepney operating in Metro Manila, but will also assist the local police in reporting and countering various crimes in the city. This move by the Philippine Police is also viewed as an attempt to instil public trust and become more approachable to the public. Several policing authorities such as the Regional Operational Plans Division, Regional and Detective Management Division and Regional Intelligence Division etc. will be the direct authority over the LSVs. To ensure that the new team of crime fighting drivers stays focused, the police has issued clear instructions related to their conduct. The LSV’s should not be guilty of any crime and should have a clean slate to be eligible for Lambat-Sibat.

Image Courtesy: BusinessWorld

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