The Philippine Jeepney is once tagged as 'THE KING OF THE ROAD" of the Philippine streets and highways. This transport vehicle is an evolution of American military jeeps that were left behind by the US forces during the second World War.
Filipinos are known for its creativity. We made this means of transportation into an art. Many called this jeeps as "Patok." Its body was like a canvass that is full of colorful paintings of different kinds like portrait, religious images, favorite anime hero, landscapes and even images of sexy women.
It also has loud sounds to make the passengers energetic before going to work especially in the morning. Inside can be seen some qoutes or sayings , words of wisdom and even jokes and punch lines; most famous is "Basta driver, Sweet lover."
The sayings in front and/ or at the back area also catches attention and serves as their identification. Some known jeeps in Rizal were King Arthur, The Mechanic, Comboratintodo, Bicolana, King Joel and many others.
This public utility vehicle is a cultural symbol of Filipinos that reflects our creativity, hopefulness, humbleness, and strength. But soon will be replaced by modern, eco-friendly public utility vehicles. The Philippine modernization program was already set. Sad to say, but we have to bid goodbye to the traditional jeepneys that 15 years old and up. The government is preventing bigger problem on the streets wherein old jeeps is prone to smoke belching and machine malfunction which has effects on health and security of the public.
So for the millenials, seize the moment with this traditional Public Utility Jeep. Come and ride. Experience and appreciate the "KING OF THE ROAD" before they replaced with modern jeeps.
Thanks for having time reading my article. Photos were taken by Sony cybershot at the streets of Manila.
