How To Ride Safely in a Jeepney in the Philippines

Despite what is in the news lately, I can assure you that the Philippines is a very safe country to travel in and explore. It has great things to offer to tourists and travelers that cannot be seen in any part of the world. Its unique tourists' spots, great people and endemic birds and fauna are enough reasons for you to visit this country considered as the “Pearl of the Orient”.

While the Philippines is teeming with great wonders, there are, just like in any other country, inconveniences that travelers have to make some adjustments or get used to. The weather is one challenge including its ever-changing moods. But aside from the weather, one of the issues that every traveler to the Philippines has to learn to adapt is the traffic. Traffic congestion in key cities in the Philippines such as Metro Manila and Cebu is notorious where it takes several hours to reach a certain destination that can be reached within thirty (30) minutes without it.

With the traffic, it is very difficult to find a ride. However, with persistence and proper timing, commuting in the Philippines can be a very enjoyable and safe experience. There are several ways you can travel around the Philippines. You can simply walk to your destination (which of course depends on the distance), fly, and boat rides (which is common since the Philippines is an archipelago). But in Metro Manila and in other areas, the most common form of land transportation is the jeepney.

Jeepneys are considered the Philippine King of the Road. As such, this ubiquitous vehicle is the primary mode of transportation in the Philippines. It is a must for visitors and foreigners to experience riding in this vehicle when in Manila or in any other major cities in the Philippines. A first time visitor in the Philippines should not lose the opportunity riding in a jeepney to get an authentic feel of the country.

The jeepney is a product of Filipino ingenuity customizing the worn out American military jeep into something that the public can use for transportation. After the first jeepney was constructed sometime in the 1950s, this creation has dominated Philippine roads since then.

At the present time, however, this domination is being challenged by what is perceived to be a more comfortable ride. As you can see, the jeepney is somewhat uncomfortable to ride in given the hot and humid weather in the Philippines. The lack of air-conditioning is the reason why “taxis” and “FXs” are beginning to take a large chunk of passengers from the jeepneys. But, whatever the competition offers, the jeepney is expected to stay.

How to Ride Safely inside a jeepney

Dress simply - this is definitely one great piece of advice. If you are traveling in the Philippines whether in cities or in the provinces, it is best for foreigners and first-time visitors to dress simply while traveling. In riding a jeepney, it is essential that you do not wear expensive pieces of jewelry. Avoid displaying your expensive gadgets as well. Please realize that jeepneys are without air conditioning with open windows and it is easy for pickpockets and snatchers to run away with your wallet, jewelry and gadgets.  By dressing simply, you minimize the attention you get from these scoundrels. 

Pay attention to what is happening inside the jeepney – it is not unusual that the jeepney is filled up to its full capacity before it leaves the terminal. Expect that “full capacity” means that you are really in a tight squeeze inside the jeepney. In most instances, the seats are occupied to the hilt making it uncomfortable to ride inside. The hot and humid weather adds to the discomfort. But as soon as the vehicle began to travel to its destination, the wind began to blow on its open windows somehow relieving the discomfort felt by the passengers.

While inside the jeepney, it is very important to be alert.  There are various schemes or scams that are perpetrated by pickpockets and snatchers. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be wary about your fellow passengers.

Have a clear idea of your destination – when riding a jeepney, the route is already predetermined. However, if it is your first time to travel to your destination it is a good idea to have a clear idea of your destination. It is easy to get lost in the busy streets of Metro Manila. And getting lost is a prelude to dangers while traveling. 

In riding a jeepney, the driver asks for your destination or where you are going to get down once you give him your fare.  Jeepneys can stop at any point (often in complete disregard of signs) within its route. Thus, just politely tell the driver where you intend to get down as you have taken your seat. In this way, you can be informed on matters regarding your chosen destination.

Be aware of different scams that are perpetrated inside jeepneys - riding jeepneys in the Philippines is relatively safe. But, there are isolated cases of hold- up, scams and petty crimes.  However, this should not deter you from enjoying the ride. As I said these are just isolated cases. Bear in mind that these nefarious activities can be prevented. As I said, dress simply and be alert.  While most of these petty crimes occur at night, there are cases reported to have happened during the daytime.

Check your belongings – before getting off the vehicle, make sure that all your belongings are with you.  There had been several cases where a traveler has left something valuable and was returned by an honest driver or passenger. This proves that despite the economic conditions existing in the Philippines, honesty is still there.  There are still honest individuals who would return your things without expecting something in return.  However, it is always best to check your belongings before you leave the jeepney. While there are a lot of honest people in the Philippines, you might not be that lucky.