Dress LaunderetteBlog

Launderette’s garment roots trace back three generations to a small town in the Philippines called Bocaue. It was there that Leslie’s grandparents began producing ready-to-wear ladies clothing, so we thought today we’d share something uniquely Filipino. You know, in case you find yourself in the area.

How To Ride A Jeepney In The Philippines

The most exciting way to get around in the Philippines is on a jeepney. Modified surplus jeeps leftover from World War II, jeepneys have refurbished engines, are stretched to fit about 14 to 16 passengers (not including hanging off the back or onto the roof), and are loaded with a bevy of accoutrements and stainless steel accessories. If you’re extremely lucky, maybe you’ll get one with a picture of Jesus, a silver horses on the grill, and an F-15 painting. Here is a guide on how to successfully ride one:

1. Wait at a Jeepney stop sign. When you see one, wave it down. Hopefully you’ll get one with some fancy airbrushed mural on it’s side or maybe pompoms hanging from the roof.

2. Pass 8 pesos to the person sitting next to you who will in turn pass it to the next, all the way down the line until it reaches the driver. During rush hour, the Jeepney will feel like a can of sardines. You’re knees will end up touching those of the person sitting across from you and your shoulders touching those sitting beside you.

3. With one hand, hold onto the metal bar overhead (watch out for sharp maneuvers), with the other hand, hold a hankie over your nose and mouth. These are open air jeeps running on diesel so you’ll most likely get a cloud of smoke in your face.

4. To get the driver to stop, you can tap a coin onto the metal bar overhead or you can yell “para po” (stop sir/ma’am). Be sure to yell over the bumping sound system, and thank your driver as you exit, “Salamat po.”

Congratulations! You’ve successfully arrived at your destination, with your wallet hopefully still in pocket.