Iconic Jeepney Rolls into Frankfurt for Cultural Showcase

The vibrant spirit of the Philippines has arrived in Frankfurt, Germany — on wheels. As the Guest of Honor at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair, the Philippines is proudly showcasing its iconic jeepney, a symbol of Filipino culture and community.

PH JEEPNEY IN GERMANY The Philippines’ iconic jeepney is shown in Frankfurt, Germany. The country is the guest of honor in this year’s Frankfurter Buchmesse. Philippine Consul to Frankfurt Ivy Banzon-Abalos (left) and National Book Development Board Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade (2nd from right) took part in the Jeepney Journey at the Roßmarkt Frankfurt on Oct. 14, 2025 (Oct. 15 in Manila), highlighting the significance of the jeepney in Philippine culture. PHOTO FROM THE NATIONAL BOOK DEVELOPMENT BOARD

Unveiled on opening day, the jeepney display is part of a weeklong celebration of Philippine heritage. The National Book Development Board (NBDB) shared on Facebook that the exhibit highlights the country’s rich cultural identity.

NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade described the jeepney as a mirror of the Filipino soul — colorful, open, and deeply relational. Its windowless design represents the nation’s openness to others, while the bench-style seating reflects the communal nature of Filipino society. Even the fare-passing tradition among passengers speaks volumes about the value Filipinos place on cooperation and trust.

Adding poetic flair to the event, Filipino poets performed during the opening ceremony, following a welcome address by Frankfurt Book Fair director Juergen Boos.

The fair runs until October 19, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the Philippines’ literary and cultural treasures — with the jeepney leading the way.