Jeepneys in Angeles City - Philippines

Jeepneys are among the historical landmarks found in the Philippines. There’s actually a brief history associated with those colorful truck like figures you see cruising down the streets of Angeles. Actually, jeepneys are an off shoot of the American military’s jeep. During the time when Americans stayed in the Philippines, the military used those small jeeps to transport soldiers and sometimes even civilians from one place to another. This is what inspired the emergence of jeepneys as they are now in the Philippines. Among the oldest manufacturers were the Sarao and Francisco motors which are both Filipino-owned.

However, riding jeepneys is not all about the fun. There are times when you also need to be careful because there are instances wherein riding jeepneys may not be that fun and exciting for you. If you ride one, there are a few things you need to understand and consider especially if it your first time. Much more so if you are a foreigner who looks different from the common Filipino. Jeepneys is the Philippines are first and foremost the most affordable and most accessible mode of transportation, so you will really get to ride with just about anybody.

1. Ride with somebody. – Don’t be too bold about the experience of riding jeepneys especially if it is your first time. If you are not that familiar yet with the streets, it will be best to have someone with you who is also familiar with the destination you wish to make. Although for the most part you can always tell the driver to drop you off a specific location, it is still better if you have someone with you. This is especially true if you are riding for a long time because fares tend to increase depending on your destination.

2. Wear comfortable clothes. – Do not expect air conditioning when riding jeepneys. It’s better if you wear comfortable clothes not just to keep you feeling good despite the hot tropic weather but also to refrain attracting too much attention inside the jeep.

3. Do not sit diagonally. – One of the things you should prepare for in jeepneys is that the ride may not always be that comfortable. More often than not, you will be expected to sit pressed against each other because space means another person to pay for the jeepney ride. So don’t take too much space and move when asked to. Unless of course it doesn’t really feel comfortable already, but do not sit as if you are on the sofa lying down to watch your favorite movie.