As the nation marks the Day of Valor on April 9, 2026, some jeepney drivers in Pangasinan continue to ply their routes, keeping routes alive for commuters despite earning that barely cover their daily needs.

Commuters in parts of Pangasinan faced long waits for rides as fewer jeepneys operated along key routes, with many drivers unable to keep up with high fuel prices.

In Mangaldan, Bing De Vera said she waited for more than an hour to find a ride from Mapandan to Dagupan, as only a limited number of jeepneys continued to ply the route.

“Ang tagal ng biyahe, ang tagal naming naghihintay, walang sasakyan, kaya ang ginagawa ko nag-aarkila ng sasakyan,” she said.

Despite the situation, some commuters said they understand why many drivers have stopped operating, as daily earnings are no longer enough to support their families.

Still, a few drivers chose to stay on the road.

Among them is Paulino Dela Peña, who continues to operate his jeepney even as earnings barely cover daily needs.

“Talagang mahirap, sobrang hirap, pero sarili ko naman ‘yung jeep kaya okey lang sa akin,” he said.

Dela Peña said he keeps driving to serve passengers who rely on public transport, he sees it as a form of service beyond profit.

Some commuters believe these acts mirror the message of the Day of Valor, which honors not only historic acts of bravery but also the enduring resilience of Filipinos in everyday life.

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., during the 84th anniversary rites at the Mount Samat Shrine in Pilar, Bataan, paid tribute to Filipino veterans and their legacy of service.

“Let me once again recognize our veterans who are with us today: you are living witnesses to history. You are the embodiments of strength and enduring symbols of what it means to serve something greater than yourself. No tribute can ever equal the debt that we owe you. But let this gathering stand as a promise: that your service will never be forgotten, your stories will always be told, and your legacy will drive us forward,” the President said.

He also noted that while the Philippines is far from the conflict in the Middle East, its effects are being felt locally, particularly through rising fuel prices.