Public transportation in the Philippines gets a huge facelift as the Electric Jeepney (E-Jeepney)--Southeast Asia's first public transport of its kind--debuted yesterday on the busy streets of Makati City.

These electric-powered jeepneys are designed to run without the use of fossil fuels,

helping mitigate climate change and keeping air pollution and solid waste at a minimum.

The E-Jeepney revolutionizes the classic Filipino icon, keeping the well-loved and ever-resilient jeepney in tune with the times--particularly with the more environment-conscious outlook of modern times.

The arrival of the E-Jeepneys is part of an initiative led by Green Renewable Independent Power Producer (GRIPP), with support from Greenpeace and the Makati City Government. Transport federation leaders also arrived during the launch with a show of support.

The two E-Jeepneys, designed by by Philippine renewables firm Solar Electric Company, are now officially taking their daily routes around Makati and will do so eventually in Negros Occidental, undergoing technical and commercial tests for the initial 6 months. Upon successful testing, the fleet will be increased to 50 units. A power-generating facility in Makati City, one which utilizes biodegradable wastes from food establishments and wet markets and converts these into electric power, will serve as the E-Jeepneys' power source.

To see the official news release, please click here.