Mobility Humanities

This essay explores the cultural significance of jeepney art and symbolism in the Philippines, especially within the ongoing Public Utility Vehicle Modernisation Program (PUVMP). Employing insights from automobility studies, it investigates how these cultural symbols distinctly reflect and shape Filipino identities and narratives. Through semiotic analysis a variety of motifs reveal values, aspirations, and social realities unique to Filipino culture. The article also emphasises the role of jeepneys as essential components of the Philippines’ unique transportation system, and as integral elements of both urban landscapes and social interactions. This aspect is further elaborated by considering the potential cultural implications of the jeepney modernisation program. The discussion underscores the importance of understanding the socio-political dimensions of this transformation. Moreover, the paper brings to light the critical need for further research into these socio-cultural impacts. This is particularly relevant as the modernization program progresses, potentially altering the traditional jeepney landscape. Concluding, the paper suggests that future modernisation efforts in the Philippines should thoughtfully consider preserving cultural heritage. This could involve incorporating traditional jeepney art into the design of new vehicles, symbilising an important balance between modernisation and cultural preservation. This signifies the importance of balancing modernisation with cultural preservation, a theme echoed in urban mobility studies.