Beyond the Wheels: Exploring Jeepney Drivers' Work Struggles and Navigational Behavior

This study unveiled the challenges faced by jeepney drivers in the Philippines, a unique form of transportation prevalent only in this country. Due to the localized nature of jeepneys, there is a lack of comparative studies with foreign vehicle transportation systems. The research aimed to explore the economic, socio-cultural, and behavioral dimensions of modern jeepney drivers and their impact on navigational practices. Utilizing purposive sampling, the study involved seven (7) jeepney drivers from Pasig City. The research analyzed their experiences, focusing on economic hardships and daily interactions with passengers. It was found that drivers' decision-making processes are heavily influenced by road conditions, which directly affect their ability to ensure passenger and personal safety. More so, the study examined the drivers' strategies for adapting to road difficulties within the framework of transport policy. The findings indicate that the work-related struggles of jeepney drivers significantly affect their navigational behavior, intersecting with socio-cultural, economic, and behavioral aspects.