The Philippine jeepney received the international spotlight as the popular British band Coldplay chose to ride it on their way to their “A Head Full of Dreams” concert at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds.
The band behind the hit songs, The Scientist, Fix You, Yellow and Viva La Vida visited the Philippines for the first time and was able to experience the uniquely Pinoy ride.
Surprised concertgoers started posting photos on social media when they saw frontman Chris Martin and other band members riding the jeepney, the country’s trademark public vehicle.
The jeepney has become a Philippine icon characterized by its chrome-plated ornaments, colorful designs and accessories and the close sitting arrangement are said to mirror the Filipino culture of close relations, and the vibrant energy of the people. The jeepney was developed by Filipinos, and popularized by Cavite’s Sarao family from abandoned U.S. military jeeps at the end of World War II.
When the Pope visited the Philippines he was also riding a jeepney-style Popemobile. BBC’s Top Gear hit TV show has also featured the Philippine jeepney as a Pinoy feature. National Geographic even included the jeepney as a must-try feature of the country when it ranked it as one of the world’s best trips destination. Bestselling author Norm Schriever has also blogged about the charm and resourcefulness of the jeepney.
