24/01/2024
"MANONG, SAAN PO BA NANGGALING ANG MGA JEEP?"
Did you know?
Jeepneys originate from the American colonial period share taxis known as auto calesas, commonly shortened to "AC". These evolved to modified imported cars with attached carriages in the 1930s which served as cheap passenger utility vehicles in Manila. These vehicles were mostly destroyed in World War II.
When American troops began to leave the Philippines at the end of World War II, hundreds of surplus Jeeps were sold or given to the Filipinos.
The Jeeps were stripped down and altered locally: metal roofs were added for shade, and the vehicles were decorated in vibrant colours with chrome-plated ornaments on the sides and hood. The back part was reconfigured with two long parallel benches with passengers facing each other to accommodate more passengers.The size, length, and passenger capacity have increased as it evolved through the years.
What sets the Philippine jeepney apart is its vibrant and elaborate decorations. Each jeepney is a work of art, reflecting the owner's personality and creativity. Intricate paintings, vibrant colors, and ornate accessories such as metal sculptures, tassels, and curtains adorn the exterior and interior, creating a truly eye-catching sight. They're recognized for their bright, eye-catching colors. Religious icons, TV and movie figures, NBA teams and players, stunning landscape, word art, or family members can all be shown on the sides of jeepneys.
The jeepney is more than just a means of transportation. It holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, representing their resilience and ingenuity. Jeepneys serve as a symbol of the Filipino spirit, embodying the values of community, resourcefulness, and unity. Considering its history, it has also become a reflection of the Filipino spirit — innovative, and optimistic.
References:
https://theculturetrip.com/asia/philippines/articles/how-the-jeepney-became-a-filipino-national-symbol #:~:text=Jeepneys%20as%20a%20cultural%20symbol,resilient%2C%20innovative%2C%20and%20optimistic.
https://www.kollectivehustle.com/blog/the-iconic-philippine-jeepney-a-symbol-of-filipino-culture-and-heritage #:~:text=The%20jeepney%20is%20more%20than,community%2C%20resourcefulness%2C%20and%20unity.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeepney #:~:text=Jeepneys%20originate%20from%20the%20American,destroyed%20in%20World%20War%20II.