How to Ride a Jeepney in Philippines

Jeepneys or PUJs (Public Utility Jeepneys) are the most common means of public transportation in cities and towns all over the Philippines, aside from buses, taxis, and trains. They came into existence after World War II when some ingenious Filipinos converted surplus army jeeps into a vehicle usable by the public. Since then, this mode of transportation became an important symbol of Philippine culture. For first time travelers to the country, here is a guide to help you ride a jeepney.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Philippine peso coins

1. Know your destination. This is very important so you won’t get lost. Jeepneys have specific travel routes which can be identified on the vehicle's sign board or windshield. Drivers can only drop you off within these routes. If you are not sure how to get to a certain place, ask the driver, a fellow commuter, or a traffic policeman to help you get on the right jeepney.

2. Check if you have loose change in Philippine pesos. You will use them to pay your fare. Hand only coins to make it easier to pay and get off the vehicle quickly. Paying in large bills for a small amount of fare usually causes delay. Some drivers and driver assistants (called “konduktors”) don’t have enough change to give back to the passengers, especially on the first trip.

3. Look for a place with a “Jeepney Stop” sign. This is the authorized section for loading and unloading passengers. Wait for a jeepney with a sign board of the route you are heading. Once you see the vehicle in sight, wave your hand to the driver. Wait for the jeepney to slow down or stop.

4. Get on the vehicle quickly and find an available spot to sit, either in front or at the back. A typical jeepney seats 14 or 16 passengers at the rear, plus two in front. If you get a seat in front, be ready to move any time to the back when the driver picks up a disabled passenger. Front seats are reserved for people with disability, but can be occupied in the meantime, when there’s no disabled passenger in the vehicle.

5. When you pick a back seat, you will be sitting on one the two opposite benches. Be prepared to touch shoulders or knees with the other passengers, especially during rush hours. Grab the metal bar overhead for support in case of unexpected turns.

6. Pay your fare as soon as you get on the vehicle in order to avoid delays. Ask how much the current fare is. It changes from time to time. As of May 2008, the minimum jeepney fare is Php 8.00, plus Php 0.50 increase for the first four kilometers. Hand the coins to the “konduktor” or the driver if they are within arm’s reach. If you sit far from them, pass the money to the passenger next to you, so he/she can pass it to the next, and so on until it reaches the appropriate person.

7. Signal the driver to stop when you reach your destination. You can do this three ways. Use a coin to tap the metal bar above you. You can also pull the string on the jeepney’s ceiling (if there’s any). The simplest way is to say, “Para!”, which literally means, “stop”. As soon as the vehicle slowed down or stopped, say “Salamat” (thank you) and get off the jeepney immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Some jeepneys play loud music. This is very common. To avoid being irritated, distract yourself by observing other fellow passengers or looking out the window.
• Hold your bag or purse close to your body to discourage prospective thieves from reaching what’s inside.
• Pay attention to the passengers getting on and off the jeepney. Keep your feet away from the path as much as possible so you won’t get stepped on.
• While inside the vehicle, be careful of pickpockets and snatchers. They are found in any public places and transportation facilities in the Philippines. Avoid carrying large amount of money with you, as well as wearing excessive jewelries. Never use your cellphone, either.
• If you sit in front, always gave your spot to a disabled passenger. It’s the law. You can get arrested if you refuse.

Resources

• Philippine Jeepney History
• 2008 Minimum Jeepney Fare
• The Art of Traveling in Jeepney

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on 11/7/2009 This article is fascinating and tells a lot about Filipino culture. 5*