philippine jeepney 101
Click to viewIn this video, comedians and Youtube-sensations Moymoypalaboy tell the viewers how to ride the jeepney. Of course, some of the things said in this video or not true or just exagerrated facts but it still kind of tackles "Jeepney 101" or the things you should now as a commuter. As a commuter myself, I would just like to share some tips and reminders on how you could survive a jeepney ride here in the Philippines. But let me first tell you some information about our beloved coffin-on-the-road jeepney or Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJ).
King of the Road
You would see this type of vehicle whether you're in the metro or rural area. Our PUJs are embedded on the world of transportation because of Filipino's creativity. Riding one of these has always been part of any foreigner's to-do list when they visit the Philippines; some even described it as "colorful buses".
RnB singer, Usher rides a jeep during his July 2010 concert here in the Philippines.
The United States army left units of Willy jeeps after World War II. These jeeps were popular means of transportation and were small in size. Filipinos then saw the need to remodel or add some more features to the Willy to better serve their needs. They stretched the back of the jeep to accommodate more passengers and put on a sturdier roof for shade. They even dashed the interior and exterior of the vehicle with different designs and accessories. Even though there were no longer Willy jeeps to alter, Filipino jeepney production still emerged as people tried to find ways of rehabilitating inexpensive public transportation.
Because there's no monopoly in our public transportation, our jeeps are always in intense competition with each other so they could get the most passengers. Commuters benefit from this because they are always bombarded with offers to ride along. Passengers continue to patronize this means of transportation because jeepneys would stop anywhere for you as long as it's on the way. Riding the jeepney is also considered one of the most convenient and inexpensive way to get around. With its popularity and usefulness, the jeepney was crowned, the King of the Road.
Jeep Etiquette
I started commuting on my own when I was in my later years in high school. I was so excited back then because it just proved that I'm starting to be independent (from my parents). I studied in a private school and being a commuter means having a "Commuter's Pass" that I could use to get in and out of the campus without being apprehended by the securiy guards. Anyway, yes, I have a lot experiences when it comes to commuting. So, what is the first thing that you have to remember when riding a jeep?
>> Always be courteous.
Be respectful whether you're boarding or getting out of the jeep, or just trying to pass your fare to the driver, handing out a co-passenger's change, or calling out your stop. Never forget your manners. It would be a breath of fresh air if everyone would just do the same. See how these phrases sound differently from each other:
"Bayad." "Fairview." "Para!!"
"Bayad po. Makiki-abot po. Thank you." "Fairview po." "Sa tabi lang po. Para po."
I don't know why most people have forgotten the wonders of the words, "po" and "opo". I know it gets irritating when you have to keep repeating what you've said to the driver just because he or she couldn't hear you or when passengers keep hitting your knee no matter how you sit. Keep your cool. A little respect could go a long way. If you're nice enough, the driver might even cut you some slack and not charge you P2.00 more for your fare. A passenger might even assist you with your heavy luggage. Been there. Done that.
>> Be honest.
If you're not a student or a senior citizen, then you cannot avail the discount. Just pay the right amount for your fare and be on your merry way. The drivers have families to feed too. However, if you feel that you are being charged way too high, then, it is always helpful to ask for a copy of the tariff. The destination, stops, and fares are usually listed there. As of now, the minimum fare is P8.00.
>> Treat the jeep like it's your own.
I notice this from a lot of passengers. Whenever they bring drinks or food with them inside the jeep, those things would most likely end up under the seats or thrown outside and on the street. If a bin is not available, I suggest that you keep your trash for the mean time. How would you feel if the jeep you're in is filled with trash? Uncomfortable, right? Be considerate to the driver and the (next) passengers.
>> Be alert.
Unfortunately, not everyone is a saint. No matter how "cool" you look, it would be useless if snatchers/robbers get the better of you. So, refrain from using or showing off your gadgets. If you can't stand commuting without listening to music, I suggest that you use just one piece of your headphones. Do not be a MASALOG and sleep without anyone looking after you and/or your belongings. In other words, DON'T BE LIKE ME! Stay alert and take note of your environment. Is the person on your side staying too close to you even though there's still plenty of space in the jeep? Is it you or that person has been eyeing you for quite some time already? It's not paranoia but I just like to instill the importance of awareness.
Stay calm and don't panic if something bad does happen. Call for help ASAP. Thank goodness I haven't been in that kind of situation but people always advice me to not get ahead of myself. (I'll probably have a separate, "more indepth" post on what to do when something bad does happen while you're commuting.) There's a time to fight and there's a time to flee.
There you have it. I hope this helps in some way. Just remember these tips and for sure you would have a more favorable experiences while commuting. Be safe everyone!
