Young developers introduced a 3D game to underline the impact of the ongoing phase-out of traditional jeepneys on the lives of the drivers and their families.

The project is in response to the rolling Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), which aims to replace jeepneys and other public utility vehicles (PUVs) of at least 15 years old to address safety, efficiency and environmental concerns.

Creators Iyanla Bagasan, Eriond De Jesus, Marcus Florentino, MJ Lenomta and Charlotte Timbreza were mentored by thesis adviser Ian Christian Sevilla.

The team understood the potential benefits of the initiative. However, they likewise underscored that the issues in the implementation, particularly the timeline and the higher cost, highlighted complexities involved in such a significant transformation.

“Ever since the emergence of jeepneys, they have become ingrained into the daily transportation, livelihood, and even the cultural identity of the Filipinos,” they stated.

“They are privately owned and operated. Yet the government wants their owners to pay P2.8 million for a minibus and admission into a cooperative,” they added. “With an estimated income of P400 a day, each driver will only be able to pay such debt in 19 years.”

The provided timeline, according to the team, leaves drivers with the sole option to cooperate with large corporations.

“Despite the good intention of PUVMP, such a small window for transition would displace many jeepney drivers and operators who are unable to meet the requirements,” they stressed. “To do it so soon, without proper planning and value to the opinion of the drivers, is predatory to the lives and jobs of those afflicted.”

To shed light on the experiences of the drivers and their families, the homegrown talents from the Game Design and Development Program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde combined interesting visuals and gameplay to provide an engaging and educational platform.

Titled Para Po!, the game allows players to navigate the bustling streets and master the art of jeepney driving. This is all while tackling the intricacies of urban traffic, passenger management, and, of course, the looming threat of the phaseout.

“By simulating the life of a jeepney driver within the context of PUVMP, Para Po! not only provides entertainment but also serves as a learning tool, fostering empathy and understanding,” they explained.

“It bridges the gap between the real and the virtual, promoting a deeper connection to the issues at hand and encouraging discourse on the need for a balanced and inclusive approach in the evolution of public transportation in the Philippines,” the added.

Ideal for fans of socially relevant gameplay, it allows users to champion their advocacy to help preserve the legacy of the iconic vehicle amid real-world challenges.

“It is accessible, locally meaningful, and promises an engaging blend of cultural nostalgia and thrilling gameplay,” the group stated. “Its low-poly, cute art style draws casual gamers, while its set of strategy and mechanics captures those who enjoy games like Overcooked.”

Para Po!, which was launched for Windows PC, was produced using Unreal Engine, an advanced game development platform for blueprint programming. It was hailed as the Best Capstone in their graduating batch. At the recently concluded Philippine Creative Awards: Game On 2024, it likewise nabbed the Best Innovation Award. It was also nominated for the Game of the Year and Best Desktop/Console Game under the School Category.