PUBLIC transportation is an integral and crucial part of our daily routines, whether we are off to school or headed for work. However, sometimes, we forget basic etiquette in our regular commute, may it be by bus or jeepney, to name a few transport options. Observing proper decorum and behavior in our many forms of public transportation can greatly affect how we go about our day. As a refresher, here are 10 ways to be a better civilian aboard public transport:
1 Let passengers get off first.
Before hopping on the jeep, allow exiting passengers to go first. Don’t block the way out.
2 Give way to pregnant women, elderly and persons with disability.
If you’re seated by the exit and any of these people enter, make way for them or tell other passengers to scooch over so that person can have a seat and not have to struggle to find one.
3 Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
Spread the love, not germs.
4 Modulate your voice.
The stress of the daily commute is made less unbearable with the company of a good friend, but we must not forget to keep our voices down. Not everyone has to know about your relationship woes.
5 Tie your hair.
Have pity on the person beside you who doesn’t need to have a mouthful of your hair for dinner.
6 Be careful with your food.
Having a meal to-go with you onboard can be quite the challenge, with the sudden stops and abrupt braking. Hold on to your food or beverage, and make sure not to spill it on anybody.
7 Be mindful of other passengers.
Keep an open ear for passengers who ask to pass on their fare to the driver or conductor. Don’t leave the person hanging!
8 Pay with coins and small bills.
Don’t expect drivers to give you change for P500 or a P1,000 bill, especially when the day just started and you’re just paying for yourself. They need the coins and smaller bills for the rest of the day.
9 Have your belongings on your person at all times.
Don’t put your bag on the seats. Make room for other passengers. This will also reduce your chances of being a target of people with malicious intent!
10 Keep your children in check.
If you’re traveling with little ones in tow, make sure they aren’t rowdy or disturbing your fellow passengers.