Jeepney Press / Alma Reyes

The Long Journey with Jeepney Press

Congratulations to Jeepney Press’ 20th Anniversary!

It has been quite a full 17-year journey writing for Jeepney Press. It all started in 2005 with a good friend, Tony Fernandez’s book review of an architecture book, “Mini House Style” I had co-published with an editorial office I was working for at that time. JP was still being printed and distributed by post. I remember often being excited to pick up that 10-copy bulk of printed journals in my mailbox. Naturally, at some point, JP had to cope with the digital era; thus, printed copies saw their goodbye and turned to online media.

The years have been an extensive learning experience, searching into bits and pieces of Japanese culture, customs, festivals and events to feed foreign readers in Japan about routinary life in this country. I also had gracious opportunities to interview notable people, like designers, artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and authors to feature them in the newspaper. Thank you to the Movement 8 Designers of the Philippines, fashion designer Feanne, Professor Ambeth Ocampo, One Hundred Homes for Barangay Inangatan volunteer group from Ateneo de Manila, Gerry Baron of Magdalena’s Cacao Bean Chocolates, psychologist Lissy Ann Puno, Kentaro Inada, Boy Katindig and Stephen Bishop.

JP also inspired me to explore Japan’s beautiful cities, parks and gardens, which I enjoyed photographing and sharing to the readers. I congratulate Dennis Sun for his continued dedication in keeping the newspaper alive and strengthening the spirit of Filipino camaraderie in Japan. I hope that many readers will view Jeepney Press not just as a literary medium, but also a supportive hub in bringing Japanese, Filipinos and other foreigners together as part of a special community. Thank you for allowing me to contribute to this endeavor.

More Power and All the Best for 2023!

© Alma Reyes