Jeepneys are considered a symbol of Filipino culture. These bus-like transports were made out of Willy Jeeps that were left by the United States after World War II in the early 1950s. The jeeps were lengthened to fit more seats, topped with a roof, and painted colorfully. The unique, individual paint jobs adorning these jeepneys have attracted designers like Christian Louboutin, who released tote bags inspired by the vehicle in 2018.
Over the past few years, Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has been trying to phase out Jeepneys despite protests from the drivers and low-income citizens. President Duterte hopes to replace the Jeepneys with more eco-friendly, modernized vehicles that more closely resemble a bus than a Jeepney. This change is intended to reduce pollution, increase safety, and make public transportation more accessible.
Source: The New York Times, Lonely Planet, Culture Trip