Whenever I take a ride in a public passenger jeepney, all forms of courtesy and politeness fly out the window?

Question

Here in the Philippines, the jeepney has been its trademark vehicle or transportation. I sometimes take the jeepney going to my office, and coming back home. Although the ideal Philippine jeepney may look colorful and attractive in all its bright and festive colors, in reality, and this is true for public commuters, when boarding a jeepney, you experience the worst of Filipinos! Jeepney drivers and their "conductors" call and shout and yell the name or names of the destinations where the jeep is heading, much to the discomfort of your ears. They fill the jeepney with passengers to capacity! Most times you'd find yourself squeezed by your fellow passenger from both sides, you all look like sardines packed so tightly in a can! And, then there's the passengers, if you are the last passenger to board the jeep, those who have already seated themselves would tend to move towards the door leaving you a seating space that's farthest the door! All forms of courtesy disappear! WHY???????

Answer 1

It's not a matter of being discourteous. You're just not used to the "masa" since you only take the jeep "sometimes."

The "barkers" call out where the jeep is heading in a pila--the driver is in line and pays someone who's in charge--so the jeep has to be filled to the max for the driver to recoup what he paid for.

Passengers who need to get off somewhere near tend to sit closest to the "door" because it's more convenient to get in or out. People who will travel the whole trip may opt for the inner part since they're staying the whole trip.

There are also courteous people who will "kandong" others if the jeep is full just to be able to fit another who's eager to get to work or home.

It's a tough commute out there and sometimes you'll get left behind if you don't push back. But females are still accorded respect.

Sanayan lang...

Answer 2

Well, maybe it's because I'm a foreigner, but my experiences on the jeepney were quite pleasant-- except in Manila! The air there is terrible! You sit in traffic, and the exhaust from the Jeepney in front of you crawls through the windows. It's a horrible experience!

Anyway, you get what you pay for. Jeepneys are cheap. It's not like you can get a limo for that much money. If you don't like taking the Jeepney, maybe you could take the taxi.

But like I said, my experience in the Jeepneys were fine. I live in LA, and it's always nice having someone else drive! Sometimes, we were squeezed in in the jeepneys on hot days, but I was still happy because the fare was something like 12 pesos for two! The driver's helper was always good with change and never tried to rob me. Everyone moved over to make space for the new passengers. People could pass their money down without worrying about someone stealing it. Women with cute little children were all smiles. But yeah, I think I was the only one who said thank you and excuse me. But whatever! It's cheap!

Answer 3

Just sabit! It's the best way to ride a Jeepney. ;)

You've got a jeepney filled with people who are hot, probably been in traffic all day, wanna be able to just get off as quick as possible, don't wanna be stuck in the hottest part of the jeepney....and who are you that they would make you more comfortable? I dunno, you just have to remember that there aren't always gonna be nice people out there. You just have to be nicer and not let it bother you (maybe you'll start teaching some people who can be reached by example), or be more aggressive and take that damn seat next to the exit! Personally I'd only move from my "spot" which was at the end by the exit, if there were elderly, pregnant, or someone w/ children getting on board and there was no more room (though children should not sit in that spot...too dangerous). Youngins especially guys can find their own space, and I'm generally a nice person - just don't come between me and my spot. XD

Answer 4

Safety on Public Transportation

Jeepneys/Jeep and Buses. Always prepare the exact amount of fares when taking a ride if possible carry with you coins. Currently, the fare rate is pegged at Six Pesos (Php6.00) at any short distance and a peso increase depending on the distance. Always let the driver know where your stop is. Well-organized, systematic robbery of passengers on jeepneys along popular tourists routes is a serious problem. It does not know any time so always be wary even in broad daylight.

If you see your way being blocked by a stranger and another person is very close to you from behind, move away. This can happen in the corridor of the jeepney or on the jeepney platform or station.

Taxis. Only take taxis clearly identified with official markings. Beware of unmarked cabs. Always request the meter to be flagged down. If the taxi DOES NOT USE OR HAS NO METER then find another cab.

Do not accept food or drink from strangers. Criminals have been known to drug food or drink offered to passengers. Never, never fall asleep inside the public bus or jeep. If that is not possible, stay awake or take turns sleeping in shifts with your traveling companions. If you must sleep unprotected, tie down your luggage, strap your valuables to you and sleep on top of them as much as possible.

Do not be afraid to alert the driver or other passengers if you feel threatened in any way.

Answer 5

Dude, there are far worse attitude in other countries than this. Others are right, the yelling and the discomfort you feel when riding the jeepney is part of our culture. If you are a foreigner or a Pinoy in the Philippines, you just have to go with the flow. Live it, man!:-)

Answer 6

Not true. At least I still hear the Bayad/Salamat PO or HO, and the Makikisuyo words from fellow jeepney passengers. Courtesy and politeness are integrated within the Filipino language.

If you mind the sardine-packed set-up, avoid rush-hours-- better yet, take a cab.

Answer 7

I am a foreigner (not a white) and often gets mistaken also for a local there.

I find that courtesy gets coutesy in return and the most amazing thing about hte jeepney, it can sit 10 up to 25 people and all smiling.

Guess everyone already mentioned, thats the price you pay and can expect in return. To me, thats also a great way to blend in with the locals and understand the culture better.

Answer 8

My cousin had quite an experience on a jeepney rather contrary to your theory. Well, it was extremely crowded and hot as usual, many ppl standing up, one guy sitting atop the roof, and across from my cousin was this pretty chikeeta, which he looked shyly at. As the jeepney went swooping by they continued exchanging looks. Then, out of nowhere , Screeeeeech!!!!! A very sudden stop launching my cousin forward. And geuss whos lips planted on someone elses???? U guessed it!

Answer 9

I dont take jeepneys..why?
1. jeepney fare is 7.50. FX or aircon bus is 10.00. Why would you let yourself suffer for a difference of 2 pesos to a more comfortable, safer and healthier ride?

2. I found out in some areas that aircon buses or FX are cheaper than jeepneys. Lawton to Buendia is 10 pesos for buses and FX, and 12.50 for jeepneys. Coastal mall to zapote las pinas is 11.75 in aircon buses and 12:50 for jeepneys.

Answer 10

haha... that's the number one i really miss in the Philippines!!!!

conductors yelling "konting sik2 nLang pox2"!!!

and can't you see even though the traffic is too heavy Filipinos always smiling at you.??..

that's how Filipinos are!....
ive been here in Japan for almost a year and all i can hear is silence..its so so boring that's why no wonder many Japanese commit suicide but look at the Filipinos they have alot problem but has a very low percent of suicides?

hey you!!!...
if you cant take the Jeep
you can always take a cab and live onyourself!!!

haha.... I Love Philippines!!!