Jeepney: King of the Road

Filipinos are known worldwide for their ability to create make-shifts and reproduce first-class technology into something that with limited financial resources can attain. This has been evident in a distinctly Filipino creation, the Philippines Jeepney.

The idea of the vehicle was derived from the GI jeep brought by the American soldiers during the World War II. It has the same strong engine as an Army jeep but with a body that has been remodeled and resized to accommodate commuting passengers that normally ranges from 20 to 30 all in all.

Every Jeepneys carries a touch of artistry and ingenuity as well-detailed artworks are elaborately displayed on the shining chrome bodies and even in to the vehicles interior. No jeep is exactly similar to others in terms of appearance. It has radio/CD player to attract more passengers especially if there is a curtain or transparent window cover to protect the passengers from dust and smoke from diesel fumes.

Jeepney drivers are full of character and skills that other drivers don’t have. They are vigilant. Spot immediately a potential passenger in a certain distance and race to get there before the competitors arrive. They know who among the passengers have not paid the fares and know who pays the exact amount of fare required for a certain distance traveled.

Drivers are also cashiers while driving; they are accepting fares from passengers and give change if needed. Drivers are mechanic, when breakdowns come in the middle of nowhere, they fix it by themselves. Jeepney drivers can smoke, eat, count money while driving and can squeeze from other jeepneys and buses in a very busy road.

Today, the Jeepney is the most popular means of transportation in the Philippines, with its innumerable population which is mostly concentrated in the metropolis, no wonder why it has been tagged as the country’s “King of the Road”.