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July 2003
- From: Philippines
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Philippine Converted Willys MB Jeep Article
Jeeps in the Philippines
The typical passenger jeep locally called “Jeepney”
While visiting the Philippines (PI) it was interesting to see many vintage Willys Jeeps converted to lengthy and colorful public transports known as "Jeepneys".These decorative jeepneys boast high-power stereos (forever playing songs from the local FM stations), disco lights, a rear aisle entrance, and multiple grabpoints to "sabit" (hold on to) when seating is limited, which is nearly always the case. :) Passengers are literally sitting shoulder-to-shoulder. Commuters frequently "sabit" or hang to the exterior of the vehicle. They hold on for dear life as the jeepney stops and accelerates at break- neck speed only to stop again and repeat the whole process. The passengers jokingly state "lumilipad na yung jeep" (the jeep is now flying) which isn't far from the truth. Although nearly all the Willys jeepneys have been retired, they have been replaced by newer "Saraos" which are locally made. Jeepneys number in the thousands (about 235,000 nationwide) and can be seen "everywhere" in metro-manila and the provinces. In Cubao alone, the jeepneys flow like a river down the street.
Jeepneys are known for the lavish decorations and lights.
The traditional Jeep style has lived on in the PI as a popular personal vehicle, of course in a locally produced imitation known as the "owner-type jeep". It resembles a US Army M38. It is simple and affordable transportation made of stainless steel bodies and refurbished Toyota engines. They are often seen with quaint windshield plackards with sayings. What is also notible are the musical back-up horns that play "Happy Birthday" and stickers galore identifying all the members of the family and that the jeep is "Family Owned" or "Not For Hire".
The interiors of the Jeepney is as colorful as the exterior.
Emblems such as handcrafted stainless steel animals and icons are common.
It's no wonder why the jeep has taken so well to the PI. The jeep is well suited for the environment of the PI. Not only is it an ideal vehicle to drive in the provinces but in the city as well where many roads have become constantly eroding potholes, bottomless mudholes, or consumed by "Baha" (flooded over). Rainy season takes it's toll on vehicles with water levels averaging from as little as one foot to as high as a meter in some places. Even during the dry season some roads are incredible obstacles.
Colorful as it is, it is a rugged mode of transportation.
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Note: The article shown was composed using parts of different articles found in the internet. The pictures are likewise taken from different sources on the net.
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