REACTION PAPER

In order to enjoy culture and tradition when traveling, there are several
factors to take into account. The form of transportation is another aspect I pay
attention to and always make sure to experience when I travel. The country's
description is largely around transportation. It is a piece of heritage and it describes
a nation's distinctiveness.

And out of all the countries I've seen, I'm incredibly happy that the Philippines is
the only one with a Jeepney, the only mode of public transportation that features
such original artwork. More than any other nation, I think it is clever and original
that the Philippines and its inventor came up with their own bus model.

The eradication of all traditional jeepneys from the country has been discussed by
the government in recent weeks because they are a major contributor to traffic
problems. Being a student nationalist, I believe that Traditional Jeepneys shouldn't
be phased out because they are a part of the nation's history and a symbol of
Filipino transportation. We can't just take it out of the Philippines since it is a part
of it. Then comes the E-Jeepney, a supposed pro-environment version of the
Jeepney that runs on electricity.

I will never support the phase-out of jeepneys. Although the new jeepney is healthy
for the environment, it is ironic because these vehicles are built in China on the
other hand. Also, not everyone can afford to own a jeepney with a price of $2–$5
million; furthermore, consider the 20–25 pesos fare, inflation rate, and expensive
transportation charge. It would be acceptable if the government just hired drivers
and purchased the new jeepneys, but that is not the case. The Filipino culture is
being destroyed by the current system.