The jeepney is actually a jitney, a paratransit mode with a capacity between the bus and the mini-bus. Jitneys are quite popular in developing countries like those in Southeast Asia and Africa. In the Philippines, the jeepney evolved from the American Jeeps left by US Forces after World War 2 that were customized in the style of the auto calesas that developed before the war.

With the government’s public transport modernization program, there are now many so-called ‘modern’ jeepney models operating around the country. The following are photos I took while doing fieldwork in Mandaue City.

Many modern jeepneys are actually mini or micro buses like the one in the photo. They did not retain or adopt the look of the conventional jeepneys. This one is a model by Japanese automaker Hino. The one behind is another jitney form – a multi cab.

Another modern jeepney / mini bus model manufactured by another company. I have to check which company given the emblem in front of the vehicle.

Another Hino vehicle but by a different operator as evident in the livery.

Another mini bus model

A low floor bus operated by Ceres, a major bus company in the country that also operates RORO buses.

Another modern jeepney model operated by another coop in Mandaue.

Star 8 jeepneys are also operating in Mandaue City. I first saw these in Tacloban City many years ago. They were supposed to be able to recharge via solar panels installed on the roof the vehicle. That should allow them to replenish power while running. These days, we do have a lot of sun so the only question is whether the solar power feature is functional.

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