Incongruous: large Western tourists crouching in Jeepneys! 

“Trikes” could qualify – over 7 million colourfully painted 3-wheel motorcycles with sidecar tricycles often called “lifeblood of Philippines”, nimbly transporting people from A to B, keeping the economy going. So could the loosely hanging, rusted, haphazardly interwoven, safety hazard, spaghetti electric wires along roads everywhere.  But for us – jeepney “minibus taxis” reflect our Philippine experience more than any other symbol.

Multicoloured, gaudy, “air continuous”: i.e. – Open windows all the time; bumpy, jerky ride; noisy, straining diesel engines; stopping anywhere when flagged down or to let off passengers; 13 pesos for first 3 and 1 peso for each additional kilometre. 20% off for Senior Citizens! (1 USD = 55; 1 ZAR = 3 pesos).  Manufacturing “stretched” to accommodate 25 passengers – specifically short Filipinos, not tall Americans (explained our guide, while we were crunched along benches inside our Jeepney). 

Most of 110 million Filipinos clearly don’t have it easy. But warmer, friendlier, more caring people you won’t find anywhere. We experienced it observing their service provision in Israel and Canada; on the ship every day and at each of four Philippine destinations visited. Always a gift upon arrival (locally made necklaces the best!); their welcoming musical bands, dances, “mabuhay” greeting (meaning “long live”); sustained courteous, cheerful, uncomplaining service orientation.

At tiny beautiful Kalanggaman island, full beach day with magical starlight dinner, multi-coloured costumes, traditional dancing. At Bohol Island, sadly, our overriding memory is of a fellow guest taken to hospital and later shocked to learn of his passing away. Kaddish on ship with a large “Community” in attendance was moving. At Romblon Island, mainly in Jeepneys – observing how marble is cut from the mountain and its subsequent manufacturing process. Then sprawling chaotic Manila with standout story National hero, Jose Rizal, martyred for inspiring the Philippine revolution against colonial Spain.

A welcoming Country. Many bumps along their paths. Yet, just like their Jeepney drivers, Filipinos don’t wait for “formal stops”. Rather they willingly respond to needs. It was special to visit and experience their giving culture and warm, generous people.