Philippines Jeepney

The Philippines Jeepney is the symbol of Filipino ingenuity and artistry. Descended from US Military Jeeps left in the islands during World War 2, they have since evolved to become the country’s’ major mode of public transport. You can see jeepneys plying the different routes that interconnect the country’s’ cities and municipalities.

Jeepneys are built by a number of local manufacturers and even some backyard mechanics. Using very basic equipment, the entire body is literally assembled and built by hand from welded sheets of galvanized and stainless steel. Except for the surplus diesel engine imported from Japan everything else is locally made. The different design possibilities together with an assortment of decorations ensure that no two are exactly alike. Stainless steel hood ornaments, multi-colored streamers and stickers are liberally used. Airbrushed scenes and pictures have also gained popularity. Wood is also used for ceilings and speaker housings.

A unique feature is the use of signs and labels to adorn the body inside and out. They proudly declare how the jeepney was acquired such as “Katas ng Saudi” (Earned from Saudi) or for quotes and jokes like “Nasa Diyos ang Awa Nasa Tao ang Gawa” (With Gods’ Mercy and through Mans’ Efforts) and Basta’t Driver Sweet Lover (Drivers are sweet lovers). In the center of the dash, the driver has his own version of a cashier box in which he inserts different denominations of rolled paper bills and coins to be used as change. It can be detached whenever he takes a break to safeguard his earnings.