In the Philippines, they are known as “kings of the road,” colorful, open-air vehicles with loud horns and diesel engines that ferry millions of Filipinos on their daily commutes. Called “jeepneys” for their origins as U.S. military jeeps, they are cramped and stiflingly hot, ubiquitous on the busy city streets where many riders consider them an icon.
The government wants the iconic rides off the road.
Jeepneys nationwide were scheduled to be phased out by the end of the year, to be replaced by more expensive minibuses under a government modernization program. At a price of $43,600, the new replacement vehicles are more energy-efficient, comfortable and safe. But many jeepney drivers say they can’t afford them, and not having a vehicle would mean the end of their livelihood.
[Oh, my GOSH – if you’ve never had the experience of seeing a Jeepney, less mind a crowd of these things, they are something else. Garishly decorated (festooned with lace and colors galore), humming with loudspeakers of either music or the drivers hawking their services, and packed to the gills with bodies, they are a sight to behold. I guess Tijuana Taxis would be the next closest things. I cannot imagine a street in the PI without them – or getting anywhere around the ville without a ride in one. I don’t think the Filipinos will sit still for this. ~ Beege]
Join the conversation as a VIP Member