MANILA, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Manila Bureau) – Whenever there is an election for a new Pope, the sign that a Pontiff has been chosen is the white smoke (as opposed to black) that comes out of the roof of the Sistine Chapel in The Vatican.

This age-old Roman Catholic tradition is being adopted by the Land Transportation Franchise and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in the Philippines through new implementing rules of the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program.

Not all old jeepneys will be phased out — only those that emit black smoke from their vehicles. White smoke belchers will be just fine.

No reaction yet from PISTON and other striking transport groups.