Learn about Filipino American history while riding in an actual Philippine jeepney
Get a dose of Filipino American history by embarking on an hour-long jeepney tour through Los Angeles' very own Historic Filipinotown! The tour is hosted by Pilipino Workers Center, a non-profit organization. It costs $15, but honestly, how often does anyone get to ride a jeepney (the most popular public transportation vehicle in the Philippines) in the United States? The tour I went on was a newly developed version with three stops, but regular tours include two additional stops + more information about HiFi. One fascinating bit of information presented is that it was actually Filipino farmworkers ve started the Delano Grape Strikes in the 1960s, which led to the eventual creation of the United Farm Workers. On the tour, you'll get to see a mural at Unidad Park, which depicts key individuals in Filipino American history.
Additionally, you get assigned a Filipino nickname before the tour begins (ex: Len Len, Bong, Pinky). The names are actually common ones given to Filipinos, so that's pretty neat.
The jeepney used in this tour comfortably seats eight people. It kicks off at the Pilipino Workers Center headquarters, where there is free street parking right in front and in the residential area on Rockwood Street.
What makes this even cooler is the fact there are only eight jeepneys in the United States (according to PWC), and one of them is in Los Angeles!
Tours are given by appointment only, so be sure to contact the org to schedule one if you're interested! The people ve work there are very friendly and accommodating.
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