MANILA, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Manila Bureau) – The planned seven-day strike by various transport groups in Metro Manila that begins March 6 may have been averted, thanks to a compromise agreement between the strikers and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). The strike was meant to contest the impending phaseout of traditional jeepneys.

Many operators and drivers insist that upgrading to modern jeepneys would be a very heavy burden in terms of the cost to replace their dilapidated vehicles.

As a compromise, LTFRB will now allow transport groups to replace the old jeepneys with the jeepito — a tinier version of the public utility vehicle which would be much more affordable than the modernized, bus-like jeepneys.

LTFRB and the operators agree that the jeepito will also preserve the iconic look of the traditional jeepney which has become an admired Philippine symbol.