By Mariela Angella Oladive
Former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson, President of the LCS Group of Companies, announced a “No Down Payment, Zero Interest” loan program for jeepney franchisees during the Western Visayas Transport Summit on November 15 at Solana Premiere in Mandurriao District, Iloilo City.
Singson said the program aims to address financing challenges that have stalled the government’s jeepney modernization initiative.
“There has been a program to modernize jeepneys for years, but the costs have made it hard to implement. I want to help transport groups by providing a financing option that won’t require down payments or interest. This way, we can finally make the transition possible,” Singson said.
The initiative targets jeepney operators who struggle with upfront costs, such as the PHP 500,000 down payment required for traditional financing.
“Our operators no longer have to worry about the PHP 500,000 down payment. I’ve made it a priority to ensure accessibility by shouldering the capital myself,” he said.
The program features 22-seater electric jeepneys designed to preserve the iconic look and functionality of traditional jeepneys while integrating modern features. Each unit can accommodate up to 28 passengers, including six standing, and comes equipped with air conditioning for added comfort.
Singson emphasized that the design balances cultural significance with environmental and health benefits.
“The prototype is already here, being used and undergoing quality checks. This ensures the vehicles meet government specifications and provide a reliable, sustainable option for operators and passengers,” he explained.
To further support operators, Singson negotiated discounted electricity rates at solar charging stations, reducing operational costs and making the shift to e-jeepneys even more financially viable.
The program aligns with the Philippine government’s push for sustainable transportation, addressing environmental concerns by cutting the carbon footprint of public transport and promoting renewable energy.
“Modernizing the fleet is not only about providing better vehicles, but also about contributing to a greener, more sustainable future,” he added.
The Western Visayas Transport Summit brought together operators, cooperatives, and government agencies to promote collaboration and advance transportation in the region.
The event was organized by the Western Visayas Alliance of Transport Cooperatives and Corporations Inc. (WVATCCI), in partnership with the Iloilo city and provincial governments, the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the League of Transport Operators of the Philippines (LTOP).
