“Stop Playing Loud Videos”: Etiquette Rules From a Frustrated Commuter in the Philippines

(SPOT.ph) Every Filipino commuter knows the hell that is the public transportation system in the Philippines. Most of it is beyond our control, like the lack of jeepneys or a malfunctioning train line that suspends operations when we need it the most. In some cases though, it’s fellow commuters that make the daily hustle even worse.

When was the last time you were irked by another passenger? Yesterday? Or more likely, a few hours ago? Heck, even as you're reading this there's probably someone nearby playing a game with sound on max on their phone. Maybe they shoved you to get inside the vehicle, played a loud Facebook video, or stared at you for way too long. I don't know about you, but I experienced all of the above in my most recent commute.

Hopping on a jeepney, catching the UV express or bus, waiting in line for the LRT/MRT train comes with its own set of unwritten rules. These are etiquette rules that every commuter should know, but many have seemed to miss the memo. We're here to help with that.

Also read: "Don't Leave Your Popcorn Bucket Behind": Etiquette Rules From a Guy Who's at the Cinemas Every Week

Keep these commuter etiquettes in mind on your next journey

Move to the back

It should go without saying that the farther your stop is, the farther you should be from the exit point. Have the courtesy to stay out of everyone's way, especially when you're carrying a huge sack or trolley bag. There's nothing more infuriariting than you trying to get on a train carriage, a bus, or whatever, and being able to see the space at the back, unable to reach it with no thanks to the crowd up front.

This isn't a limited 9.9 sale. Everyone gets a turn. I can’t count the number of times I’ve had to shove my way through a crowd because they were blocking the only way out. 

Don’t play loud sounds

Noise pollution is one of the worst things about public transport. What is it with commuters playing whatever shows up on the Facebook newsfeed at maximum volume? No matter the public transportation, there will always be that person who will watch a video, listen to music, or go on a lengthy call on full blast.

We get it: You don’t want to spend the night bored in traffic, so you’d rather watch TikTok or Netflix on the way home. That’s totally valid. What’s not valid is subjecting everyone else to what you’re watching. No one wants to hear a wife and a mistress lambast each other all for some mediocre man on Raffy Tulfo in Action. Please.

Forgot to bring earphones? Maybe skip this habit for the time being—or be satisfied with reading the subtitles instead.

Don’t take up too much space

When riding public transport feels a lot like being stuck in canned sardines, every inch of space counts. Be conscious of the space you occupy. That means putting your backpack on your lap. That also means closing your legs, especially if you’re a man (see: manspreading). 

Manspreading is the practice of sitting in public transport with legs wide apart, which takes up the adjacent seats. Girls aren’t scot-free from this, either. Stop with the sideway sit when it’s a full ride.

Adjusting your sitting position, tie your hair before getting on the train, or whatever other adjustments necessary to make sure you don't become a nuisance to the person next to you. With everyone pressed together, every bodily movement is 100% felt by the surrounding victims. Everyone’s on their own journey—literally and figuratively—so let’s give each other the space to travel in peace.

Let passengers exit

Listen, no one wants to be unable to get off at their stop. Give way to passengers exiting the vehicle. Standing near the van or train door? Step outside until everyone’s out. This simple act ensures a smoother transition for everyone.

“Excuse me po” should be enough for people to give way without having to resort to brute force to carve a path out. 

Queue with integrity

The art of queuing is a testament to one’s character. Always form a line, no matter the chosen type of public transport. No cutting or budging. It’s a silent agreement among commuters that makes the journey a tad bit more pleasant for everyone.

Sly commuters like to make a beeline for the entrance. Filipinos are polite to a fault, which is why some people take advantage of cutting without fear knowing that they won’t be confronted for the act. Don’t enable this behavior as it only emboldens those who believe they can bypass the rules without consequences.

Also read: "Don't Hold Up Large Signs": Etiquette Rules From a Girl Who's Really Into Concerts

Be mindful of odor control

Tropical heat and packed transport can be a recipe for…unique scents. As much as possible, be considerate of fellow passengers by practicing good hygiene. If you know you tend to break a sweat, then it might be best for you to carry a small towel. 

A quick swipe of deodorant or a spritz of cologne can also go a long way. The same applies to vapers and smokers whose scents might come off as too overwhelming for everyone else. Your fellow passenger will secretly thank you.

Observe reserved seating

Certain seats are reserved for seniors, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities. There are signs—everyone sees them, even if you pretend not to. 

This isn't musical chairs with the elderly. Sit if you must if there is none of those aforementioned groups in sight, but offer the seat to those who need them more. It’s a small gesture that speaks volumes about empathy.

Respect privacy

We’ve talked about space, now let’s talk about privacy.

Avoid prolonged eye contact or eavesdropping in a conversation. Zoning out is pretty normal in the daily hustle, but make sure not to space out while directly looking at another person. It not only makes others feel uncomfortable, but it could also be interpreted as a hint of aggression. Just be mindful of intangible boundaries in general.