Has the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) relaxed its rules on proper attire for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers?
Many drivers continue to drive jeepneys wearing sando, probably thinking the sleeveless shirt transforms them like macho surfer dudes. Fact is, the shirts actually make them look like they slept in them, too—like they went straight from bed to their vehicles.
The MMDA should remind these drivers they are in a service industry and they have to treat passengers with respect—as people on whom they rely for their livelihood. It is discourteous to passengers when jeepney drivers look like they are just doing chores at home.
And some drivers seem to feel they are actually doing people a favor by allowing them to take their PUVs. They are rude, arrogant and reckless.
Courteous drivers
Speaking of PUVs, the online Grab and Easy Taxis seem to be doing a good job of improving the attitude of drivers affiliated with them.
Although I have so far availed only of the services of Grab Taxi, I find that drivers linked to either network are more polite and disciplined than your usual variety, even if you just flag them on the street, instead of booking online. They are also less likely to refuse to ferry a passenger.
Of course, when traffic is bad, like during the recent flash floods, you will still have a longish wait.
Grab Taxi people told me that drivers who join them are required to undergo a seminar, which includes how to deal with passengers.
But, as is usually the case, there are some drivers who “forget” or who think they can get away with violations of company rules, thinking the passenger will not bother to complain.
I am sure many unhappy customers find it a waste of time to report erring drivers, which is a pity. The only way we can insure that drivers take to heart lessons they learn is to provide feedback to the companies involved. I have reported unsatisfactory service to Grab Taxi, and penalties are imposed on those who breach rules.
Giving value to trash
Robinsons Town Mall Malabon, with the Malabon City government, the Philippine Plastic Industry Association, Inc. (PPIC) and Polystyrene Packaging Council of the Philippines (PPCP), has launched the May Kita sa Basura (There is Money in Trash) project.
A commitment board was set up at the mall to remind Malabon residents of their obligation: “As a responsible steward of the environment, in respect of others and myself, I humbly pledge to keep my surroundings clean, practice eco-options, Reuse, Reduce and Recycle!”
The project will provide a waste-recovery facility through a scrap-buying fair involving Robinsons tenants, other business establishments, schools, religious groups and city residents. Collections will be held every third Saturday of the month, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at the tent-covered sections of Robinsons Town Mall Malabon, Gov. Pascual side parking area.
Recyclable waste like papers, cartons, tin cans, Styrofoam, plastic bottles, ink cartridges, car batteries, used tires, used cooking oils and e-wastes will be accepted by scrap buyers.
Robinsons Town Mall Malabon regional operations manager Darwin Renolayan said the project aims to demonstrate the store chain’s commitment to the campaign to make city residents and businesses responsible stewards of the environment.
The commitment board signing was headed by Malabon City Committee on Environment chair Merlin Tiger Mañalac and Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) president Paulo Oreta. Students and city residents also signed to show their commitment and support.
Call Robinsons Town Mall Malabon at tel. 2360950 for information on the monthly trash fair.
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