Since the minimum jeepney fare was
increased to P8.50, this has been the routine not just for Aling Estella, Mang
Pinong, Michael and Bryan, but also for the millions of Filipinos who try very
hard to make both ends meet with only a few pesos to spare everyday. Instead of
commuting, most people just choose to walk towards different destinations and
save their money for other needs.
Jeepney has been regarded as the
most popular and cheapest means of transportation in the Philippines.
It became an established symbol for the country. Their colorful
interiors and exteriors prove how creative and resourceful Filipinos
can get. Large speakers set up under jeepney seats show how important
music is for a stressed passenger’s life.
This vehicle has also been an
inspiration for many Filipino artists. Who would forget rock icon Juan dela Cruz
Band’s hit song, “Beep Beep” (a song inspired by the sound of jeepney horn)? A
trademark for many Filipino films, jeepneys also became a setting for various
movie scenes, from the funniest down to the most dramatic ones.
I remember my uncle’s smiles while
telling us his stories of how he met his wife while riding a jeepney to
Quiapo. I will always find it amazing that one of my elementary school
classmates was actually born inside a jeepney while taking the road
towards Philippine General Hospital (PGH). I will never forget those
moments when I used to enjoy jeepney rides with my high school
classmates after our exhausting days at school. I remember those times
when I had to ride a jeepney from UP Diliman to Mendiola during
demonstrations, while shouting our rally chants at the length of Quezon
Avenue.
I long to see the day Aling
Estella, Mang Pinong, Michael and Bryan can well afford to pay fares
that will allow jeepney drivers and their families to live in comfort. I
hope more people will get to experience priceless jeepney moments as
well. However, we all know they will only happen if we take collective
efforts to fight poverty and if we direct ourselves towards a common
goal of better lives for all the Filipinos.
For the meantime, I will savor my
jeepney moments, as we look forward to better times ahead. "Ma, bayad
ho!"
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