Capitol to review jeepney overloading measures

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. said the provincial government will review current measures to address passenger overloading in provincial jeepneys following reports of increasing incidents, particularly during late-night trips.

Defensor said passenger overloading has resurfaced in some areas due to uneven demand and limited transport availability.

“We will go back to the problem since enforcement is under Iloilo,” Defensor said during a press conference on Jan. 30.

He said overcrowding often occurs during peak hours, prompting the need to reexamine passenger capacity limits and enforcement protocols.

The governor acknowledged that many drivers make efforts to comply with safety regulations, including refusing to accept excess passengers.

“I know our drivers follow the prohibition on overloading—maybe not all, but I have seen drivers asking passengers to disembark once capacity is exceeded,” he said.

“Sometimes it is difficult to manage, especially when there are no other available vehicles,” he added.

Defensor said the provincial government will work closely with law enforcement agencies, including the Land Transportation Office, to strengthen monitoring and ensure compliance.

He also said the province would review operational policies, including last-trip cutoffs, to improve availability and prevent overcrowding.

The matter will be referred to the Provincial Planning and Development Office to develop data-driven solutions aimed at reducing overcrowding and enhancing commuter safety.

Meanwhile, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan recently adopted a resolution urging local chief executives in Iloilo’s component municipalities and the city to take immediate action to curb overloading and improve public safety.

The resolution also supports regulating provincial jeepney operations, including proposals to increase the number of trips during peak and nighttime hours to reduce dangerous overcrowding.