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Jeepney Routes to Major Universities in Iloilo
Understanding Iloilo City’s jeepney routes is essential for students, especially those who rely on public transportation to reach their universities. Iloilo is known for having one of the most organized jeepney route systems in the Philippines, and many universities sit along major transport corridors such as Diversion Road, Gen. Luna Street, and the Jaro–City Proper axis. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of jeepney routes that serve major universities in Iloilo, including UP Visayas (UPV), Central Philippine University (CPU), University of San Agustin (USA), Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), West Visayas State University (WVSU), and St. Paul University Iloilo (SPUI). It also includes detailed travel tips, route notes, ride landmarks, and practical advice for new students.
Major Jeepney Routes in Iloilo: An Overview
Before diving into university-specific routes, it helps to understand the major jeepney lines in Iloilo City. Some of the most common routes students will encounter include:
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Jaro CPU – Ungka / Tagbak
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La Paz – Iloilo City Proper
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SM City – Mandurriao / Hibao-an
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Molo – City Proper
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Leganes – City Proper
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Villa – City Proper
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Mandurriao – City Proper
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Baluarte – SM City
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Gen. Luna routes (passing through major university belt)
Most jeepney routes pass through major intersections such as Diversion Road, Jaro Plaza, La Paz Plaza, UPV Iloilo City Campus, and City Proper (Downtown/Iloilo City Center). These points act as hubs where students can easily transfer if needed.
Jeepney Routes to the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) – Iloilo City Campus
The UPV Iloilo City Campus is located along Gen. Luna Street, within the city’s university belt. Many jeepneys pass directly in front of or near the campus.
Key Jeepney Routes Serving UPV
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City Proper – Baluarte
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City Proper – Villa
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City Proper – Molo
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SM City Proper
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Mandurriao – City Proper
These routes typically traverse Gen. Luna Street, making them the easiest choices for UPV students.
Closest Jeepney Stops
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UPV Main Gate (Gen. Luna)
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Molo Plaza (for routes toward Villa/Baluarte)
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SM City (if taking a connecting route)
Best Routes for Students from Jaro or La Paz
If coming from Jaro:
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Ride Jaro CPU or Jaro Liko NFA, then transfer in City Proper.
If coming from La Paz:
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Ride La Paz – City Proper, then transfer to any Gen. Luna jeepney.
Travel Notes
Traffic can get heavy along Gen. Luna during class hours, so allow extra travel time. Jeepneys also tend to fill quickly during peak periods (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–7:00 PM).
Jeepney Routes to Central Philippine University (CPU) – Jaro
CPU is located near Jaro Plaza and is one of the most accessible universities in Iloilo via jeepney.
Key Routes Serving CPU Directly
These routes travel along Lopez Jaena Street, where CPU is located.
Closest Jeepney Stops
Best Routes for Students from Other Districts
From City Proper:
From Mandurriao:
From Lapaz:
Travel Notes
The Jaro CPU jeepney line is known to be reliable and frequent. However, during evening rush hours, students may need to wait longer due to full jeepneys from City Proper heading north.
Jeepney Routes to the University of San Agustin (USA) – Gen. Luna
The University of San Agustin is located along Gen. Luna Street, close to UPV, making it a prime stop along the university belt.
Key Routes Serving USA
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City Proper – Villa
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City Proper – Baluarte
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City Proper – Molo
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SM City – City Proper
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Mandurriao – City Proper
All these routes pass directly in front of or very near the university.
Closest Jeepney Stops
Best Routes from Jaro or La Paz
From Jaro:
From La Paz:
Travel Notes
Because USA sits in a high-traffic area, it’s easy to catch a ride—but traffic congestion during late afternoon is common.
Jeepney Routes to Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) – La Paz
ISAT U is located near La Paz Plaza, making it one of the most jeepney-accessible campuses in Iloilo.
Key Jeepney Routes Serving ISAT U
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La Paz – Iloilo City Proper
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La Paz – Jaro
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Jaro Liko NFA (passes close by)
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Leganes – City Proper (some pass through La Paz)
Closest Jeepney Stops
Best Routes for Students Coming from Other Areas
From City Proper:
From Jaro:
From Mandurriao:
Travel Notes
La Paz jeepneys are frequent and reliable. ISAT U students benefit from proximity to La Paz Market, where many jeepneys converge.
Jeepney Routes to West Visayas State University (WVSU) – Luna Street, La Paz
WVSU sits in a strategic transport corridor between La Paz and Jaro.
Key Routes Serving WVSU
These routes pass along Luna Street, where WVSU is located.
Closest Jeepney Stops
Best Routes for Students Coming from City Proper
From Mandurriao:
Travel Notes
Luna Street can experience moderate traffic, especially during hospital peak hours.
Jeepney Routes to St. Paul University Iloilo (SPUI) – Gen. Luna
SPUI is located on Gen. Luna Street, near USA and UPV, making it part of the central university belt.
Key Routes Serving SPUI
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City Proper – Villa
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City Proper – Baluarte
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City Proper – Molo
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SM City – City Proper
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Mandurriao – City Proper
These jeepneys pass directly along the university’s frontage.
Closest Jeepney Stops
Best Routes from Jaro or La Paz
Students from Jaro or La Paz should travel to City Proper first, then transfer.
Tips for Students Using Jeepneys in Iloilo
Know Your Landmarks
Most jeepneys announce major landmarks such as:
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Jaro Plaza
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La Paz Plaza
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SM City
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Robinsons Place
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Diversion Road
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Molo Plaza
Knowing these helps you confirm you’re on the right route.
Prepare Exact Fare
As of recent years, regular student ₱fare applies if you present your student ID. Having exact coins or small bills makes boarding easier.
Ride Times to Avoid Congestion
Gen. Luna, Diversion Road, and City Proper are congestion hotspots.
Communicate Clearly with Drivers
Common phrases to use:
Always Check the Signboard
Jeepneys display their routes clearly:
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CPU–Ungka
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La Paz–City Proper
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Villa–City Proper
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Mandurriao–City Proper
If unsure, ask the driver before boarding.
Final Thoughts
Iloilo City offers one of the most convenient jeepney systems for students. With major universities located along well-connected roads, commuting is straightforward once you learn the routes and landmarks. Whether you are commuting daily from Mandurriao, Jaro, La Paz, or City Proper, there is always a jeepney route that brings you directly or very close to your university.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How do I know which jeepney to ride to my university in Iloilo?
The easiest way is to memorize both your university’s district and the main road it is located on. For example, Central Philippine University (CPU) is in Jaro along Lopez Jaena Street, while UP Visayas, the University of San Agustin, and St. Paul University Iloilo are along Gen. Luna Street. Look at the jeepney signboards (such as “Jaro CPU,” “La Paz – City Proper,” “Villa – City Proper,” or “Mandurriao – City Proper”) and confirm with the driver before boarding by asking, “Do you pass by [university name]?” or “Sa [landmark] po ba kayo dumadaan?”.
Which jeepney routes pass by UP Visayas, University of San Agustin, and St. Paul University Iloilo?
UP Visayas (Iloilo City Campus), the University of San Agustin, and St. Paul University Iloilo are all located along Gen. Luna Street, which is part of Iloilo’s university belt. Common jeepney routes that pass by or very near these schools include City Proper – Villa, City Proper – Baluarte, City Proper – Molo, SM City – City Proper, and Mandurriao – City Proper. As long as the jeepney is heading along Gen. Luna, you can usually get off directly in front of or a short walk from your campus.
What jeepney should I take if I study at Central Philippine University (CPU)?
If you are going to CPU, the most convenient routes are Jaro CPU – Ungka and Jaro CPU – Tagbak, which travel along Lopez Jaena Street and stop in front of or very near CPU gates. From City Proper, you can ride any jeepney with a “Jaro CPU” signboard. If you are coming from other districts such as Mandurriao or Molo, you will usually go first to City Proper and then transfer to a Jaro CPU jeepney.
How can I reach ISAT U and WVSU using jeepneys?
ISAT U is located near La Paz Plaza, while WVSU is along Luna Street, between La Paz and Jaro. To reach ISAT U, you can ride a La Paz – City Proper jeepney and get off at La Paz Plaza or directly near the campus. For WVSU, La Paz – City Proper, Jaro CPU, and Jaro Liko NFA routes commonly pass along Luna Street. Students often get off at the main gate or near the WVSU hospital, depending on their building or department.
Is it normal to ride two jeepneys to get to my university?
Yes, many students use a two-leg route, especially if they live in districts that are not directly connected to their campus. For example, a student from Mandurriao going to a Gen. Luna university might ride Mandurriao – City Proper first, then transfer to a City Proper – Villa or City Proper – Baluarte jeepney. This is common, affordable, and part of daily student life in Iloilo, as long as you plan enough travel time.
How much does a typical jeepney ride cost for students in Iloilo?
Jeepney fares are generally very affordable. There is a standard minimum fare set by transport authorities, and students often receive a discount when they present a valid student ID. The exact amount may change over time, so it is best to check the latest fare announcement from local authorities or posted signs inside the jeepney. Always prepare small bills and coins to make paying easier.
What are the busiest times for jeepneys around university areas?
The busiest hours are usually early in the morning from around 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, when students and office workers are heading out, and late afternoon from around 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, when people go home. Areas like Gen. Luna, Diversion Road, City Proper, Jaro Plaza, and La Paz Plaza can become quite congested. During these times, expect slower travel and sometimes full jeepneys, so it is wise to leave earlier than usual on exam days or when you cannot be late.
How do I tell the driver where I want to get off?
To signal your stop, you can say short phrases such as “Para po” (Stop, please) or be more specific with “Sa gate lang po” (Please stop at the gate) or “Sa plaza lang po” (At the plaza, please). Many students also tap a coin on the ceiling rail to get the driver’s attention. Try to speak loudly enough to be heard but remain polite, and give your stop notice a little before you actually reach it.
What should I do if I am not sure whether the jeepney passes my university?
If you are unsure, do not hesitate to ask before boarding. You can say, “Dumaan po ba kayo sa [university name]?” or “Do you pass by [landmark]?” If the driver says no, simply wait for another jeepney with the correct route. Locals or other students waiting at the stop can also be very helpful, so you can ask them which jeepney to take if you feel confused.
Are jeepneys safe for new students who are not familiar with Iloilo yet?
Jeepneys are the most common and practical way to move around Iloilo, and thousands of students use them daily. As with public transportation anywhere, you should still practice basic safety habits: keep your bag securely closed, avoid displaying expensive gadgets unnecessarily, and be mindful of your belongings when the jeepney is crowded. It is also a good idea to save important landmarks on your phone map and to travel with classmates during your first few weeks.
How can I learn the routes more quickly as a new student?
A helpful approach is to focus on the routes that connect your boarding house or dorm to your university and to City Proper. Ride the same route several times to become familiar with landmarks and turning points. You can also take photos of jeepney signboards, ask upperclassmen about the fastest routes, and mark key areas like Jaro Plaza, La Paz Plaza, and SM City on a map. Over time, you will naturally remember which jeepneys go where, even without checking your notes.
What should I do if I miss my stop or get off at the wrong place?
If you miss your stop, do not panic. You can simply get off at the next safe stopping point and either walk back or ride another jeepney going in the opposite direction. Iloilo’s main roads and university zones are walkable in many areas, and people are generally approachable if you need directions. Politely ask, “How do I get to [university/landmark] from here?” and follow the instructions. Treat it as part of learning the city’s layout—it happens to many students, especially in their first weeks.
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