Philippines: How to Ride a Jeepney

If you’re from a first-world country, you might consider public transit a somewhat archaic concept. However, if you were in the Philippines, it would be more than that: a must for everyone who doesn’t own a car. And public transport means jeepneys. The iconic vehicle comes in different shapes and sizes, and for some reason, people love to decorate them with anything from paint and vinyl to metal chains and beach umbrellas. 

Ever wonder how these vehicles became popular and what makes them so special today?

The main answer is that jeepneys are culture, not just cars. 

Jeepneys are a cultural icon in the Philippines. These originated from the American colonial period and were known as share taxis or auto calesas, commonly shortened to “AC.” Eventually, it evolved to modified imported cars with attached carriages in the 1930s, which served as cheap passenger utility vehicles in Manila. Today, Jeepneys are a staple of Philippine transportation, anywhere like from Manila to Baguio (the nation’s summer capital) or from Davao City up northeast. 

Here are the things that you need to know when riding a jeepney in the Philippines 

1. How to catch a jeep? 

You may ride a jeep in the designated terminal. 

If you are in the terminal and you see a jeepney driver approaching the road, wave your hands so they will see you. If the jeep stops for you, there is still room for passengers. Enter the jeep and take a seat. 

2. What if the jeepney is crowded?

Don’t worry – it’s normal for passengers to squeeze in until everyone can fit comfortably. If you are already inside the jeep but can no longer sit properly, we can respectfully ask others to move slightly. You can say ‘pwede pong makiusog?’ or ‘pwede pong makiurong?’ which is translated to ‘Will you please move?’

3. Does jeepneys have an exact route? 

Usually, a sign indicates where the jeep will be going. However, the jeepneys don’t have an exact route and may make a few unexpected stops, always be aware of your surroundings. In that way, you may familiarize yourself with the landmarks.

4. You will be asked to pay either when you enter the jeepney or when you alight.

Payment is based on distance traveled. Tell the driver where you’re going, and he’ll let you know your fare. When paying the jeepney driver, pass up your fare to someone sitting next to you, and they’ll pass it along until it reaches the driver.

You may say ‘Bayad po‘, bayad means payment in Filipino. When asking someone to pass your fare, you may say, ‘Makikisuyo po ng bayad‘ it is like saying, ‘Will you please forward my payment to the driver?’ If you are paying the exact amount, the driver might ask you things like ‘Ilan to?’ which means ‘For how many?’ or ‘Saan kayo bababa?’ Where are you going to get off? 

Sometimes, the drivers are so busy driving that they might forget your change. You may say, ‘Sukli po ng _________’ (state the amount you have paid) or change for _________ (state the amount you have paid). Change is sukli in Filipino. 

5. When you wish to get off, press the bell or knock on the metal between the windows to signal that you want to get out.

You may also tell people by saying “para po” (pah-rah poh, for me, please) loudly. The jeepney driver will stop driving if the area is suitable for dropping passengers. 

Other phrases commonly used by Filipinos in getting off a jeep are the following: 

Sa tabi nalang po – Please stop at here 

Pakibaba po sa kanto – Please stop at the corner 

6. Finally, don’t be concerned if you see street children or adults step into a moving jeepney and tap on the roof before jumping down again.

Some vendors sell different things — food items, flowers, newspapers, etc. You can buy something from them by passing your payment up to them through someone

Rides on jeepneys are usually more fun than not. But it is best to remember some basic rules to ensure your experience goes as smoothly as possible. 

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