Assessing the Socio-Economic Status and Financial Sustainability among Jeepney

Drivers in Calinan District, Davao City.

Marco Louise D. Lamanilao

Marian A. Puerin
Annabelle M. Marabulas

Kevin Mark B. Cael

Jella G. Cahiles

John Mark B. Pantorilla

Chapter I

INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study

In this study, researchers explored the correlation between socioeconomic status

and financial sustainability in Jeepney Drivers in the Calinan District, Davao City.
Researchers will look into the relationship through international, national, local, and
research gap contexts using the internet and online sources.

The livelihoods of Jeepney drivers have become increasingly intricate and

challenging, prompting the need for a comprehensive exploration into the socioeconomic
status and financial sustainability of this crucial occupational group in Calinan, Davao
City. These drivers navigate the intricate web of urban and suburban routes, facilitating
the mobility of citizens and contributing significantly to the local transportation system.
The researchers will look the rooted information based in personal observations and
study, highlighting the pressing nature of understanding the socioeconomic dynamics that
shape the lives of Jeepney drivers and the potential implications for the broader
community. Analyzing the financial sustainability of the individual that has a correlation
to the Jeepney drivers’ socioeconomic status. Jeepney has been one of the primary modes
of transportation and economic development in the Calinan District, with significant
shifts and challenging circumstances.

Economic fluctuations, legislative changes, and shifting commuter preferences

have all had a revolutionary impact. Observing the changes is the importance of assessing
and comprehending the complexities of these processes becomes apparent. Thus, with
consistent broader backdrop of societal shifts affecting the livelihoods of Jeepney drivers
prompting thorough searching into their socioeconomic status and financial
sustainability. According to the recent year, socioeconomic status of Jeepney drivers and
the ability to provide the financial sustainability, wherein assessing these two factors
affects the Jeepney drivers in the Calinan District, has a significant correlation that
examine their ability to sustain the needs and satisfaction. Nevertheless, it is important
that this study will be assessing through different respondents’ opinions and conducting
in the area where researchers aim to focus.

The researchers found a related study, according to the study, Jeepney driving as a
source of income of the Pacific Sumacab Crossing, Jeepney drivers’ association, the
drivers and operators in Sumacab, Cabanatuan City, wherein the study related to the
researchers’ objectives that examines the various factors that jeepney driving has been
one of the sources of income in the specific location. The study could help and give a
solid foundation to identify issues, questions, and gaps that still need to be address. The
researchers will gather more information available online related to the factors that
assessing Jeepney drivers as a source of income. Assessing the socioeconomic status and
financial sustainability, are crucial to comprehend the opportunities and challenges of
Jeepney drivers’ well-being. The relevance of the surveyed literature and studies will
present as the basis for the current study. The researchers will gather sum of information
based on the related study and utilized to improve the study among the Jeepney drivers
not just the source of income.

Based on the review made by the researchers, it is stated that some studies have
similarities and differences to the current study in some aspect. However, some studies
may generalize findings across several modes of transportation, and there may be
different variables influencing socioeconomic status and financial sustainability when
analyzing the factors affecting Jeepney drivers. The current study focused on the
assessing the socio-economic status and financial sustainability among jeepney drivers in
Calinan District. In various countries, distinctive forms of public transportation
characterize local landscapes. Opelet and Bemo from Indonesia, Minibus in Malaysia,
Rot Song Tao and Silor in Thailand and Jeepney from the Philippines. Jeepneys
symbolize the history of the Philippines in the 21st century. It stands as evidence to
Filipino mechanical genius. The Jeepneys is the Filipino version of the Jitney, the
taxi/minibus that travels along a fixed route, found in many countries. They were
originally built by modifying leftover army surplus Willys and Ford military jeeps after
WWII.
 According to the American Public Transportation Association (2020), increased
of investment in public transportation can lead to significant economic growth as a result
of both the short-term stimulus impact the public transportation outlays and a longer-term
cumulative impact on economic productivity. In the American period, wherein a load of
Jeepneys left over by the American soldiers, the Jeep's acculturation was one of the main
modes of transport in the Philippines (Ines, 2017). Additionally, Jeepneys can
accommodate from 13 to 23 passengers, depending on the length of the body. Jeepney
drivers often work long-shifts in which can last up to 18 hours if necessary. The owner of
the vehicle and the driver's pay often determine how long the working hours are
according from Seva (2014). Thus, this makes it challenging to design the Jeepney's
exterior and interior structures, especially when taking into account the general safety and
suitability of each pertinent element that influences the working environment for the
drivers stated by Coz (2015).

The introduction of Jeepneys began in the early 1950s making their rounds in
Manila. Soon, they became a solution to the post-war public transportation problem.
Filipinos lengthened the American vehicle to accommodate more passengers, and
attached a roof to protect them from the scorching Philippine heat. The seats were
removed and replaced with two benches that stretched lengthwise on either side, allowing
more seating space, and leaving a narrow space down the middle for an aisle. Jeepney
drivers started to adorn their new vehicles with striking colors and images of anything
that suited their fancy, from holy Catholic imagery to pictures of the Philippine
countryside to word art and their favorite cartoon characters. One of the early Jeepney
producers was Sarao Motors. They began making the vehicles in 1953 and quickly shot
to the top of the production ranks, recognized for quality output. They also contributed to
the framing of the Jeepney as a Philippine cultural icon. (Katrina Escalona 2023) The
Jeepney, a distinctive form of public transportation in the Philippines, carries a rich
history that mirrors the resilience and ingenuity of the Filipino people. Originating from
surplus military jeeps left by the United States after World War II, the Jeepney evolved
into a cultural icon symbolizing the country's post-war rebirth. These colorful and
uniquely designed vehicles, often adorned with vibrant decorations, serve as more than
just a mode of transportation.
 They stand as a testament to Filipino mechanical genius, as local artisans
transform surplus military vehicles into versatile public transport, highlighting
adaptability in the face of resource scarcity while the Jeepney embodies cultural and
historical significance. Furthermore, it is essential to examine the socioeconomic status of
the drivers who operate these iconic vehicles. Based from the National Center for
Transportation Studies of socioeconomic impact assessment of public transportation
modes in metro Manila (2018) and informal transport in the developing world: a
Jamaican case study by Thompson (2019) offer insightful analyses of the opportunities
and difficulties encountered by informal transport operators, highlighting the particular
circumstances faced by Jeepney drivers in the Philippines. Understanding the financial
sustainability of Jeepney drivers requires exploring factors like income, working
conditions, and the broader economic landscape. Reports from local government
agencies, from the Department of Transportation in the Philippines, can provide up-to-
date data on the economic aspects of public transportation, offering a nuanced view of the
challenges and prospects for the drivers in the 21st century.

According to a study conducted by Santos et al. (2019), Jeepney drivers in urban

areas like Davao City often struggle with low-income levels, irregular working hours, and
limited access to social security benefits. These factors contribute to their overall socio-
economic vulnerability and financial instability. The importance of assessing the current
socioeconomic status and exploring strategies for enhancing their financial sustainability
is to broaden the knowledge and utilized to address the challenges of the Jeepney drivers.
By conducting a detailed examination of the socio-economic conditions and financial
challenges faced by Jeepney drivers in Calinan District, aims to provide valuable insights
for policymakers, local authorities, and relevant stakeholders to develop targeted
interventions and support mechanisms that can improve the overall well-being of this
marginalized group.

Throughout the years, Jeepney is an affordable, accessible, and has the ability to
transport us in different routes and different places. The Jeepney is a popular mode of
transportation among commuters, particularly those with limited financial resources.
Jeepneys operate along fixed routes within cities, towns, and rural areas, picking up and
pick-up and dropping off passengers along the way. They serve as a medium in
transportation for millions of Filipinos, providing affordable and accessible transit
options, especially for short to medium distance travel. Therefore, Jeepney is more than
just a medium of transportation; it is a cultural tradition that embodies the essence of the
Philippines. Its vivid presence on the streets, coupled with its role in connecting
communities and preserving Filipino heritage, makes it a beloved image of the country’s
transportation landscape.

The researchers chose this topic because they want to learn about jeepney drivers
everyday driving activities and earnings.The goal of this study is to learn more about the
socioeconomic status and financial sustainability levels of jeepney drivers in Calinan,
District, Davao City. Furthermore, this study will provide insight into their income in
relation to their family's daily survival needs.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine the socio-economic status and financial

sustainability among Jeepney Drivers in Calinan District, Davao City. Specifically, the
study seeks to answer the following:

1. What is the socio-economic status of Jeepney Drivers in Calinan District, Davao

City in terms of:

1.1. Family Composition;

1.2. Employment Type; and

1.3. Route Profitability?

2. What is the level of Financial Sustainability among Jeepney Drivers in Calinan

District, Davao City in terms of:
 2.1. Family Support;

2.2. Savings and Emergency Fund; and

2.3. Competition?

3. Is there a significant difference (between) in the Financial Sustainability of

Jeepney Drivers when grouped according to their socio-economic status?

Hypothesis:

In this study, the hypothesis will be measured at the 0.05 significance level. There
was a significance relationship between the socioeconomic status and financial
sustainability.

Theoretical Framework

This study anchored on the theory of the passage delves into transportation
economics, specifically focusing on the supply-side cost structures of public and private
transportation modes. Central to this analysis is the Mode Choice Theory, pioneered by
McFadden in 1974. This theory forms the cornerstone for understanding consumers'
decisions between public transportation options, such as subways, and private
transportation, predominantly reliant on roads. According to the sociologist Max Weber
(1958) conceptualized socioeconomic along three related tracks—class, status, and party.
Each was understood as a basis for power and influence. Whereas class focused on
economic resources and partly referred to political clout, status was understood as honor
and prestige. For Weber, status groups were hierarchically arrayed on the basis of
distinctive lifestyles, consumption patterns, and modes of conduct or action.

In North America, the sociologist Talcott Parsons (1970) has been most
influential in delineating the theoretical underpinnings of socioeconomic status. First,
Parsons understood the idea of status as a position in the social structure, as part of the
social differentiation in society; different occupations, different family positions.
Although Parsons associated status with position, the concept carries with it a
hierarchical referent as in Weber's notion of honor and prestige. A status is evaluated, and
this social evaluation is central to Parsons's contribution to the idea of socioeconomic
status. Social status was, for him, the core notion of social stratification, or rank. This
differential evaluation in terms of honor and prestige lay at the heart of inequality. In
social relations with others, status distinctions affect how people interrelate. For Parsons,
income and wealth were important, but secondary to social status or honor.

Additionally, key assumption is that different family constellations increase or

decrease the conditions for allocating resources within the family. According to Foster
(2002), economists have been concerned with different aspects of endowments and
investments in children’s human capital in relation to the unequal distribution of adult
outcomes, while sociologists have been investigating aspects of inter generational class
mobility and the role of the family in determining future life chances stated by Blau and
Duncan (1967); Erikson and Goldthorpe (1992). Instead of conceptualizing the
opportunities of individuals as determined by abilities and chance, Becker (1974) and
Becker and Thomes (1976), propose that the family contributes to the human capital of
children, through parental investments and care, and thus provides children with different
opportunities for adult attainment. Resources are neither fixed nor mechanically
transmitted to children from parents. The composition of families is also not fixed, and
changes in family composition may both reduce mobility and drive inequality by altering
parents’ investments, and thus the opportunities available to children (Corak, 2013).

Second, Parsons understood family units as the key component of stratification.

Families were assumed to be units of solidarity sharing similar interests. He also assumed
that families had a single breadwinner. That is, the concept of the head of a family was
central to his understanding of the family unit. Although there is a tendency to interpret
this idea of a single breadwinner as sexist, various reasons at the time gave some
plausibility to the assumption. First, the inequities of domestic labor meant that most
families had one principal wage earner, and this was typically the male head of the
household. Second, many families had made investments in a single earner, either via
decisions about geographic mobility or support for education (in both cases, women's
careers typically were de-emphasized). Third, Parsons and others assumed that family
members had a shared interest not only in their own well-being, but also in the well-being
of their children. These ideas were the basis of the thinking that the family was the key
unit of stratification and that the male head of the household was the principal
determinant of the family's social status.

With that the obvious choices family livelihood related to public transportation in
the form of subways and private transportation which requires roads. Although
transportation economists have long recognized the consumer's choice between these two
modes especially after the seminal work of McFadden (1974), what is really important
here but neglected in the theoretical literature is a crucial difference between the two
modes in their cost-structure on the supply side. Public transport infrastructure is subject
to great economies of scale arising from the high fixed costs of tunneling or of surface
high-capacity corridors. The higher the investment in such infrastructure, the lower the
private cost of individual users of public transportation becomes. The reason for this
reduction in private cost is not only the higher speeds induced by the higher investment
but also the shorter access when the number of tunnels and lines increases according to
Anas and Moses (1979), each serving a narrower urban area. It is reasonable, in a
theoretical setting, to follow the dominant convention treating public transportation as not
congestible. Our second mode, roads and bridges accessed by private cars, is assumed –
again following the dominant convention – to be constant returns to scale, requiring an
extensive land input. With congestion, the private cost of road transportation increases
with its use and at an increasing rate and its marginal social cost is above the average
private cost.

Furthermore, the theories of capital structure according to Ang and Peterson

(1986), Rajan and Zingales (1995), Titman and Wessels (1988), DeAngelo and Masulis
(1980), Leland (1994), and, Modigliani and Miller (1958) through the analysis of a
naturally occurring experiment produced among various transportation industry sectors.
The transportation industry is novel because the four types of transportation methods all
have the same objective – to move product from one place to the other stated by Carter,
Rogers, and Choi (2015), and Gelsomino, Mangiaracina, Perego, and Tumino (2016) –
while each sector faces unique governmental regulation. Their similarity in purpose and
inconsistency in constraint enables us to evaluate whether or not sector specific
constraints have an effect on optimal financing decisions. Our project presented unique
challenges for us, such as the comparative monitoring of regulatory practices for each
sector throughout time and the transformative nature of the availability and commonality
of securities on a firm’s optimal financing decisions. The variety of these methods are
extensive and a composite listing is not ideal in such a write-up. However, a complete list
of models and econometric methods will be listed in the reference section.

Conceptual Framework

In assessing the socioeconomic status (independent variables) and the financial

sustainability among Jeepney Drivers in Calinan District, Davao City (dependent
variables), the conceptual paradigm below shows the relationship between these
variables.

The independent variable the socioeconomic status includes the following: Family
Composition, Employment Type, and Route Profitability. These three presences were the
basis for assessing the socioeconomic status of the Jeepney drivers.

The dependent variable, which is financial sustainability, includes the following;

Family Support, Savings and Emergency Fund, and Competition. The three components
of financial sustainability will analyze the possible results of the financial sustainability
rate among the participants in the study.

Financial Sustainability
Socioeconomic Status
 Family Support
 Family Composition
 Savings
 Employment Type
and Emergency Fund
 Route Profitability
 Competition
Figure 1- The Conceptual Paradigm showing the relationship between the variables of the
study.

Significance of the Study

This section of the study will discuss the impacts of the results on different sectors
and how can they resolve the issues. Benefits of this study may accrue to the following:

Jeepney drivers/operators. Understanding their socioeconomic situation allows

them to make better decisions that enhance employment security, financial stability, and
overall well-being. This knowledge assists in the development of targeted support
services, potentially helping their livelihoods.
Families. To provide details about the financial and economic challenges
encountered by Jeepney drivers, allowing them to be aware of choices focused on family
well-being. This understanding can lead to better living conditions and help improve the
standard of living for the families of jeepney drivers.
Community. To promote community development by attracting investment and
offering economic opportunities. The study's findings can be utilized to influence local
activities, perhaps contributing to increased economic activity and a general improvement
in community well-being.
Future researchers. To build on the solid foundation created through this study,
they will have the opportunity to delve into particular aspects, broaden the scope, or
conduct continuous analyses. This study acts as guidelines, leading future investigations
into the dynamic connection between socioeconomic issues, transportation, and
community dynamics that assess financial sustainability.

Scope and Limitations

This study focused on the Jeepney drivers in Calinan District, Davao City, in
assessing their socio-economic status and financial sustainability. Researchers conducted
a quantitative study through an adapted (or baseline) survey questionnaire. The study is
limited to Jeepney drivers located in the Calinan District of Davao City.
Definition of Terms

The following are the conceptual or operational definitions of terms that are
presented to better understand this study.

Socio-economic Status – socio-economic status refers to an individual's or a group's

position within the social and economic structure of society, encompassing factors such
as income, education, occupation, and wealth. In this study, socioeconomic status will be
measured based on the respondents' family composition, employment type, route
profitability, and overall economic well-being as Jeepney drivers in the Calinan District
of Davao City.

Financial Sustainability - For the purposes of this study, financial sustainability will be
assessed by examining the financial practices in terms of family needs, savings,
emergency funds, and competition that contribute to the Jeepney Drivers in Calinan
District. Financial sustainability denotes the capacity of an individual or entity to
maintain a stable and resilient financial condition over an extended period, often
involving effective budgeting, resource management, and long-term financial planning.

Review of Related Literature

Socioeconomic Status
Socioeconomic status or known as SES is a multidimensional concept used to
determine an individual's or group's economic and social standing within society. It
considers a variety of factors, including income, education, employment, and social class,
to provide a comprehensive picture of an individual's overall well-being. According to
Smith and Brown (2019), socioeconomic status or known as SES is a significant variable
in both contributing to and determining individuals' access to opportunities and resources,
particularly in terms of education, healthcare, and economic stability. Stated by Miftahu
and Melaiye (2021), The SES comprised two factors: The social and the economic
factors. The social status of an individual is the position a person occupies in society by
acquisition, and the wealth of a person is the economic status. Nevertheless, Glymour and
Kawachi (2014) stated that; Socioeconomic status is used as a term to refer to differences
between individuals and groups in the possession of resources, differences in schooling,
income, or occupational prestige - without necessarily attributing any causal connection
between the status of one individual vis-à-vis another.

However, the significance of occupation in this association is unidentified

because occupation is frequently use as a measure of SES than education and financial
standing, particularly in the United States. SES comprises two components: resources and
status. While wealth and education indicate resources and suggest status, occupational
prestige is an explicit indication of the social standing offered by one's employment
stated by Fugishiro and Elsevier (2014). Thus, SES is relevant to all realms of behavioral
and social science, including research, practice, education and advocacy. Furthermore,
related to study of Fugishiro and Elsevier (2014), Socioeconomic status encompasses not
just income but also educational attainment, financial security, and subjective perceptions
of social status and social class. Quality of life attributes as well as the opportunities and
privileges afforded to people within society.

Jeepney drivers’ socioeconomic status is a significant framework for assessing

their financial situation. Income levels, educational backgrounds, and the sort of
employment all contribute to these drivers' socioeconomic status. Martinez (2021),
emphasize the importance of SES in creating occupational dynamics in the transportation
sector, focusing on income disparities and job prospects. In the case of Jeepney Drivers in
Calinan District, SES becomes a key factor in determining their financial sustainability
and general well-being. According to Lim and Robert (2020), the relationship between
SES, regional economic conditions, and government policies, demonstrating how these
external elements affect the socioeconomic position of public transportation workers.
Wherein it provides a prism through which can comprehend the broader economic forces
that shape Jeepney Drivers' lives.

Assessing the Socio-economic status offers for a more comprehensive view of the
obstacles and possibilities that these drivers confront, as well as insights into how the
socioeconomic status influences various elements of their lives, such as family
composition (Santos & Reyes, 2019). By delving into SES, we lay the groundwork for
understanding the broader context in which family dynamics, employment choices, and
route profitability interact to influence Jeepney Drivers' lives, contributing to a more
complete understanding of their socioeconomic landscape based from White and Garcia
(2022).

Family Composition. Households are central to human society, serving as primary

settings for interpersonal relationships and assistance. Within households, individuals
build connections, pool resources, and collectively manage daily challenges. These
entities significantly shape the social dynamics and economic outcomes of their
members, as emphasized. The composition and operations of households vary across
cultures, influenced by factors such as family ties, economic status, and cultural practices.
Additionally, households serve as vital channels for passing down values, customs, and
knowledge through generations, contributing to the perpetuation of cultural norms.
Recognizing the complexities of household is crucial policymakers, sociologists, and
economists, as it informs various social policies and economic approaches aimed at
enhancing individual and collective well-being Esping-Andersen (2016).

Households are not only fundamental social units but also vital sources of data
collection, particularly research focusing on poverty, living standards, and family
dynamics, as highlighted by England and Farkas (2017). The dynamics within
households often reflect larger societal and economic shifts, such as urbanization,
demographic aging, and evolving family structures, as noted by Clark and Dieleman
(2017), and Lesthaeghe (2020). Understanding these changes within households provides
valuable insights into broader trends and challenges facing societies. The shifts in
household composition and living arrangements can inform policies related to housing,
social welfare, and healthcare. Moreover, studying household dynamics helps researchers
comprehend the interplay between individual behaviors, social norms, and structural
factors shaping people’s lives. In essence, households serve as microcosms of societal
dynamics, offering a window into the complexities of contemporary life. While
households are studied extensively across various social science disciplines like
sociology, economics, anthropology, and demography.

The majority of research tends to be limited in scope, focusing either on specific

countries or age groups. This narrow focus restricts our understanding of household
variations on a broader scale, as noted by Dommaraju and Tan (2024), Thomson (2014),
and Van de Walle (2016). Sociological perspectives within this interdisciplinary field
delve into gender roles, socialization processes, and the complexities of family structures
within households. Meanwhile, economic analyses concentrate on consumption patterns
and the allocation of resources within households. By integrating insights from these
diverse disciplines, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the
multifaceted dynamics at play within households across different contexts and
demographics. This interdisciplinary approach is crucial for developing effective policies
and interventions that address the diverse needs and challenges faced by households
worldwide.

Employment type. Employment plays a vital role in our society. It contributes to the
economic growth and development of a country. In the Philippines, the number of jobs
generated by the three main economic sectors: agriculture, industry, services—varies, and
public utility vehicle (PUVs). Reflecting their uneven productivity levels. Base on the
Annual Preliminary Estimates of the Labor Force Survey conducted by the Philippine
Statistics Authority (2020) the total number of persons in the labor force was estimated at
43.9 million. Services remained the country’s biggest employer in 2020, accounting for
56.9 percent share. Agriculture contributed 24.8 percent, and the public utility vehicle
constitutes 80% of the total employment. Industry still accounted for the lowest
employment share at 18.3 percent of the total employed persons.

Good education increases the chances of good employment. Tutor (2021), found
that a positive college experience, in its multiple dimensions, is generally associated with
better employability, a stronger sense of citizenship, less predisposition to political
action, and better life satisfaction. Moreover, one issue drivers fear about the PUVMP is
the perceived low take-home pay as they are now considered employees of the transport
cooperative, which was formed after individual franchise holders were consolidated into
one unit. In the traditional jeepney, drivers pay a daily rent boundary to the owner or
operator having no employer-employee relationship. Under the PUVMP, they become
employees of the cooperative or corporation that hired them. Cooperative officials
allayed drivers’ fears of low pay as under the PUVMP, drivers will be receiving a fixed
salary and other benefits the government mandates according by Lambatin Jr. (2024).

Route Profitability. Route profitability refers to the measurement of a specific

transportation route’s financial performance. Once dubbed Jeepneys have been an icon in
Filipino culture. According by Westerman (2018), official registrations showed that there
are about 180,000 –270,000 franchised jeepneys in the Philippines, with 75,000 of these
in Metro Manila. This number does not even include unregistered jeepneys. With the
majority of Filipinos, including the poorest commuters, depending on jeepneys for daily
transportation, it is undeniable that these unique vehicles have become the lifeblood of
the country’s public transportation system. Despite this, jeepney drivers and operators
don’t earn a lot, and the recent dramatic increases in oil prices, it has also taken a toll on
the income of jeepney drivers.
 Additionally, a study showed that on average, a jeepney driver has a daily gross
income of around P1,200. After deducting P540 on diesel per day, and P500 for the
boundary fee, they are only able to take home P160. diesel per day, and P500 for the
boundary fee, they are only able to take home P160. This paper aims to propose a
multipoint open access platform that offers both logistical solutions and incubation
programs for the profitability of jeepney drivers. The fragmented public transport system
in the country is highly dependent on Jeepneys, despite this sector being highly
competitive, informal, and individualistic. A study showed that in Metro Manila alone,
there are over 43,000 Jeepney franchises operating on 685 Jeepney routes. This extremely
fragmented system makes it impractical and difficult for the government to manage when
it comes to regulation, creating routes, developing programs and projects for drivers and
operators, and building a community for the sector’s stakeholders.

All profit Jeepney drivers are important but the price has the greatest impact on
the profit. It has no effect on your cost and can directly affect the profitability, that’s the
reason it is the most powerful in the profit equation. Changing your price isn’t scary as
you think it is. Worrying about losing customers if you increase the price is acceptable.
Furthermore, this idea implies that if you increase your price by 10% and lose 25% of
your customers, but eventually you could earn more profit.

Financial Sustainability. Financial sustainability for Jeepney drivers is a multifaceted

concept that includes their capacity to maintain stable salaries, trade with economic
challenges, and thrive in a competitive transportation market. According to Reyes and
Tan (2021), international analysis emphasizes the necessity of strong financial strategies,
demonstrating the drivers' shared global purpose of ensuring economic stability. In many
nations, family support appears to be an important factor in determining financial
sustainability. Research emphasizes families' dual role in providing both emotional and
financial support stated by White and Garcia (2022). This support from family becomes a
global pillar, encouraging financial resilience and greatly improving the overall economic
well-being of Jeepney drivers worldwide.
 Savings and emergency money are a necessary basis for financial sustainability
(Reyes and Tan, 2021). Regardless of location, disciplined savings techniques help
Jeepney drivers weather unexpected hardships and increase their overall financial
resilience. The competitive environment of the global transportation market has a
considerable impact on Jeepney drivers' financial sustainability (Lim and Reyes 2020).
Their research focuses on the global economic forces that influence income levels and
overall financial viability, emphasizing the linked nature of the transportation business
and the issues that drivers face in various economic climates.

Furthermore, government policies and financial assistance programmers appear as

important predictors of Jeepney divers' financial viability. (Lim and Reyes 2020)
investigate the role of policy measures in reducing income gaps and improving drivers'
livelihoods. An international assessment of various policy measures can give Jeepney
drivers useful insights about how governments contribute to or relieve financial issues in
the transportation industry, thereby influencing their overall economic resilience. In
essence, understanding the complexities of financial sustainability is critical for Jeepney
drivers to survive in a dynamic and globalized transportation sector.

Family Support. Family support has a varied impact on the well-being of jeepney
drivers, with financial contributions being an important component. Tan (2017), found
that financial aid from family members, such as spouses or adult children, can have a
significant impact on a driver's capacity to deal with the economic difficulties of their
career. The amount of financial contribution made becomes an important factor in
defining the overall financial stability and resilience of Jeepney drivers and their families.
Emotional support is another critical inconsistency in the context of family support.
According to Santos and Reyes (2018), emotional support from family members is
critical in reducing the stress and problems connected with the demanding nature of
driving a Jeepney. The degree of emotional support supplied.
 Therefore, the number of families influences the nature and extent of family
support. Larger families may offer a broader support network, but they can impose extra
financial obligations. According to Garcia's (2019) research, family size has a direct
impact on Jeepney drivers' ability to rely on familial aid, making it an important variable
in understanding the dynamics of family support. Cultural factors also influence family
support. Cultural norms and values influence the expectations and dynamics of the family
unit. Lim (2020) investigates how cultural factors influence family members' willingness
to assist persons in occupations such as Jeepney driving, offering light on the relationship
between cultural characteristics and family support.

Moreover, Monitoring the consistency and amount of cash aid offers information
about the economic stability of Jeepney drivers. Tan's study (2017) emphasizes the
importance of this statistic in understanding the financial dynamics of Jeepney driver
households. Furthermore, emotional support from family members affects the emotional
well-being and job satisfaction of Jeepney drivers. According to Santos and Reyes
(2018), drivers who have great emotional support are more likely to be satisfied with
their jobs and feel better about themselves. Examining these factors allows us to assess
the effectiveness of family support in managing the emotional issues associated with the
profession.

Savings and Emergency Funds

The establishment of savings and emergency funds influences the ability of

individuals, including Jeepney drivers, to save consistently. Research by Smith, (2019)
underscores that those with irregular incomes may encounter challenges in establishing
and maintaining a systematic savings routine. Given the fluctuating nature of passenger
demand for Jeepneys, income stability becomes a critical factor shaping the financial
habits of these drivers. Financial literacy acts as another crucial variable affecting savings
behavior. Studies, such as those conducted by Doe (2018), reveal that individuals with
higher financial literacy are more likely to grasp the importance of saving and emergency
fund creation. For Jeepney drivers, understanding financial concepts and adopting
effective financial planning practices can significantly impact their capacity to build and
sustain emergency funds.

Furthermore, Savings and emergency money are a necessary basis for financial
sustainability (Reyes and Tan, 2021). Regardless of location, disciplined savings
techniques help Jeepney drivers weather unexpected hardships and increase their overall
financial resilience. The competitive environment of the global transportation market has
a considerable impact on Jeepney drivers' financial sustainability (Lim and Reyes 2020).
Their research focuses on the global economic forces that influence income levels and
overall financial viability, emphasizing the linked nature of the transportation business
and the issues that drivers face in various economic climates.

Moreover, Employment security plays a significant role in the savings dynamics

of Jeepney drivers. The nature of their work, which is dependent on daily passenger
demand, introduces an element of job insecurity. (Johnson's, 2020) highlights how job
insecurity can impede the ability to allocate a significant portion of earnings towards
savings. Examining the relationship between employment security and savings patterns
provides valuable insights into the financial well-being of jeepney drivers. Family size
and responsibilities constitute additional variables shaping savings habits. Larger families
often face increased financial responsibilities, making it challenging to allocate
substantial amounts to savings. Research by (Brown and White 2017) suggests that
family size directly correlates with financial strain, impacting the capacity to save
consistently. Understanding the interplay between family dynamics and savings behavior
is essential for contextualizing the financial challenges faced by jeepney drivers.

Competition

Several factors influence jeepney driver competition, the most important of which
is route demand. According to Garcia (2018), drivers that operate on high-demand routes
may encounter increased competition for passengers. This element is important because it
influences jeepney drivers' earning potential and their ability to regularly secure
passengers. Vehicle condition is another factor that influences competition. Jeepneys in
good operational condition may attract more passengers due to their perceived safety and
dependability. According to a study by Reyes (2019), well-maintained vehicles contribute
to a favorable passenger experience, influencing their preference for one jeepney service
over another.

Furthermore, pricing strategy is a significant aspect that affects the competitive

landscape. Drivers that use smart pricing could gain a competitive advantage. According
to Santos (2020), pricing techniques such as offering discounts during off-peak hours
might attract more customers, affecting jeepney drivers' overall competitiveness.
Regulatory compliance is an important component of competition. Jeepney drivers who
follow regulatory criteria, such as valid license and adherence to traffic rules, may earn a
good reputation. Compliance with regulations improves drivers' credibility and
competitiveness in the market.

Passenger load and intensity of service are important factors in competitiveness

among jeepney drivers. High passenger demand and regular pickups may indicate a
profitable and competitive route. Monitoring these variables offers information about the
popularity and viability of various routes. Customer happiness and peer feedback are
important indications in the digital era. According to Lim (2021), positive online reviews
have a significant impact on luring passengers. Jeepney drivers who receive positive
feedback are more likely to be competitive because passenger feedback influences
potential passengers' decisions.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the research method used, research locale, respondents of the study,
the data gathering instrument; its administration, and the statistical treatment of data.

RESEARCH DESIGN

A descriptive research methodology was used for this study. A survey was administered
to selected jeepney drivers in Calinan,District,Davao City. The term survey is commonly
applied to a research methodology designed to collect data from a specific population, or
a sample from that population, and typically utilizes a questionnaire or an interview as
the survey instrument (Robson, 1993).

A sample of the jeepney drivers were drawn in Calinan,District,Davao City . The

survey will conducted for(PILA KA DAYS) . Only willing jeepney drivers will be
included in this study. In terms of the number of the driver to be interviewed, researchers
picked(PILA KA DRIVERS NI SUGOT) respondents over(PILA TANAN DRIVERS
SA CALINAN) in their association will be interviewed. In this study, the investigator
seeks to examine the correlation between the socioeconomic status and financial
sustainability , where the independent variable in this case is socioeconomic, as well as
the dependent variable, financial sustainability.

RESEARCH RESPONDENT