CHALLENGES OF THE SELECTED GRADE 11 STUDENT-JEEPNEY COMMUTERS OF GENERAL DE JESUS COLLEGE AND ITS EFFECT ON THEIR ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Abstract

As stated by Pante (2016), public transportation in Philippine urban areas accounts for 80 percent of overall ridership and trips, with 40 percent served by jeepneys. According to Campisi et al. (2022), public transportation increased the likelihood of individuals being negatively affected by the pandemic in the long term, while opportunities emerged to increase the modal share of active transport. Jamil et al. (2022) reported that traffic-related challenges among student commuters can negatively affect academic performance, as the stress and time required for commuting may take a toll on students. Meanwhile, Salaver (2023) emphasized that jeepney transportation offers several benefits, with affordability being one of the most significant advantages for commuters in the Philippines. This study used qualitative research, specifically a descriptive method, to examine the challenges encountered by selected student jeepney commuters and their effects on academic performance. Data were gathered from fifteen (15) selected Grade 11 students of General De Jesus College, located on Vallarta Street, San Isidro, Nueva Ecija. Participants were selected using purposive and quota sampling techniques. Semi-structured interviews supported by audio recordings were used to collect the data. The results showed that the students who used jeepneys as their primary mode of transportation were mostly female, belonged to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) strand, and resided in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. The study identified several commuting challenges, including heavy traffic, late arrival at school or class, and arriving home late after school. Furthermore, the findings revealed that these commuting challenges negatively affected the students’ academic performance. Due to these difficulties, participants reported missing class discussions and activities, experiencing a lack of focus, and having increased absenteeism. The study also identified various coping strategies employed by the participants, such as practicing time management, engaging in entertainment activities, seeking help from classmates, and meditating. The findings revealed that Grade 11 student jeepney commuters experienced significant challenges, including heavy traffic, late arrival at school, returning home late after school, and high levels of fatigue and stress. These challenges often caused students to miss class discussions and activities, leading to reduced focus and recorded absences. However, the study also highlighted several coping strategies used by students, including effective time management, engaging in entertainment such as listening to music or using mobile phones, seeking support from classmates or friends, and practicing meditation.