Kalesa Wheel

by: Annika Abad

The Spanish first introduced kalesa (from the Spanish word calesa) to the Philippines in the 1700s. It was the main mode of public and private transportation in the Philippines until the early twentieth century. They were made by karoserya, which are traditional workshops. After World War II, motorized jeepneys and tricycles largely replaced the kalesa as the primary mode of public transportation. The Kalesa is a valued asset of cities in the country, and today we will find out why.

The origins of a kalesa date back to the early 1700. It is not yet known from whom the invention originated, but it is considered fact that the Spanish were who brought it to the Philippines. My family was lucky enough to have owned the wheel of such an object. It's diameter is equal to 34 inches. The kalesa is capable of accommodating at most four people. Through the years however, the design, length, and passenger capacity of the kalesa has evolved. Now, the kalesa has more decorative features, as is mainly used to attract tourists.

During the Spanish era, the kalesa served as a luxurious mode of transportation that only the nobles, rich, and high ranked officials can afford. The carriage served as a status symbol and mark of prestige during those times. Owning a kalesa back then is similar to having a luxury car of today. For several years, the kalesa is known as the undoubted “King of the Road”, until the arrival of the jeepney during the American period.

It still holds a place in people’s hearts today as their memories are attached to it. While commuters nowadays have chosen to take modern modes of transportation for personal travel, the kalesa can still be seen plying the routes of Binondo and Intramuros. The wheels of the object are used for decorative purposes in different administrations.

In conclusion, Philippine life and culture will never be the same without the kalesa. It is part of Philippine history, and its importance can never be overlooked. Regardless of the challenges of modernization, the kalesa will always provide a unique mode of transport that is environmentally friendly.