Planning a trip to the Philippines but not sure how to get there? The Philippines is a great choice for a vacation destination. Moreover, you are not alone; navigating public transit in the Philippines may be challenging for everyone. Because of its booming economy, the Philippines is one of the ASEAN countries with the highest yearly automobile sales. Despite this, the country has not made any substantial investments in infrastructure for environmentally friendly forms of urban transportation or even road expansion. This shift toward auto-centric urban planning, coupled with an antiquated and subpar public Philippine transportation network, is very problematic for the country’s future social and economic growth.
While public transportation has the potential to be an important aspect of a more environmentally friendly transport system, it currently lacks all of the necessary components. Public transportation is painstakingly disorganized, with jeepneys (and other tiny, road-based vehicles) dominating the market. There has been an uptick in the number of people who own cars, although jeepney use has remained steady.
There are now numerous on-street competing operators for jeepneys, buses, Asian Utility Vehicles (AUVs), and tricycles in the public transportation industry. Attempts by the government to control the public transportation sector have been rendered almost impossible by the issuance of more than 43,000 jeepney franchises and more than 830 bus franchises for more than 900 routes in Metro Manila alone. Because of this, public transportation services are few and of poor quality, and traffic is often chaotic and hazardous.
Even so, getting around this beautiful nation may be challenging due to the high traffic volume, poor road conditions, and inadequate public transportation options. Because of this, we’ve compiled this transit guide for the Philippines. Try not to fret. Have no fear; we’ve got you covered.
Domestic Flights
If you want to see different islands in the Philippines, you must book several domestic flights at once! They’re fast and inexpensive, and most have layovers via Manila. That final bit might be a drawback or an advantage, depending on where you’re going, so keep that in mind when you book your flights. In addition, a local Filipino travel planner may advise you on the best route to your destination.
Trains in Manila
Fewer than 100 miles (160 kilometers) of the Philippines’ railway system operate, while many more miles of rail track sit idle. The government has ambitious intentions to expand the train system. Still, it now serves almost no purpose except for the city’s three elevated train lines (LRT1, LRT2, and MRT3), which are very inexpensive, time-efficient, and accessible to a good portion of Manila’s sightseeing places. Guests may use Beep Cards, which can be loaded with money, to make contactless payments for all available options.
Jeepneys Nationwide
The jeepney, a bright and distinctive emblem of the Philippines, may be seen alongside taxis, trains, and buses. Despite being a product of the decades after World War II, this relic of the past may still be seen navigating Philippine streets today. Like the colorful tuk-tuks of Thailand, they have become a symbol of the Philippines. Jeepney drivers take great pleasure in their vehicles, and it’s not uncommon to see flashy examples of their work on main thoroughfares. A ride in a jeepney, like a tuk-tuk, is something you won’t forget anytime soon. Both are fun to try out once but lose their luster after that. Jeepneys are cheap but also overcrowded, hot, and full of exhaust fumes since the windows never close.
Bus Transits
There is a heavy reliance on buses in the Philippines for intercity transport because of the country’s limited rail system. There is a wide range in quality amongst these. Old, deteriorating buses are used by many people, despite their uncomfortable seats, small aisles, and constant crowding. Taking a crowded, rickety bus from Manila to the mountainous town of Tagaytay is an adventure. Still, it is the only choice for getting to and from a relatively unknown location. A first-class service is available on the busiest routes, especially those that connect famous tourist attractions. These newer cars are convenient since they include amenities like free Wi-Fi and a restroom on board. You’ll be moving at a snail’s pace on whichever bus you take because of the roads’ heavy traffic and subpar conditions.
Tricycles in Local Areas
A tricycle is a good option if you need to go somewhere quickly but don’t want to wait for a taxi or have a lot of stuff with you. Different variations of these means of public transportation exist, such as motorcycles with sidecars or bicycles with trailers. The Filipinos’ creative spirit is reflected in the vibrant colors of their passenger jeepneys and tricycles all the same. The two kinds of tricycles often seen in the Philippines are safer than motorcycle taxis. One variety, like a tuk-tuk, seats passengers behind the driver and is useful for short trips. The second vehicle, a motorbike with a temporary sidecar, is more unsettling. Jeepneys are similar in that they may be entertaining for a one-time trip, but otherwise, they can’t compare to standard taxis.
Habal-habal Bumpy Rides
Jeepneys and tricycles aren’t cut for thrill-seekers who want to explore the mountains and forests. Motorcycle taxis (habal-habal) can get you to your destination, even navigating steep dirt roads. In the Philippines, you may ride on a habal-habal in cities like Cebu and Siargao, even though they are more often associated with the mountain barangays and outlying provinces of the country.
Ferry Boat/Ro-ro Island Hopping
Traveling between the country’s main islands is most convenient via ferry. The western, central, and eastern nautical highways are the primary goals of the country’s roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) system. Taking the ro-ro ships is the easiest option if you need to bring your automobile along. Tiny ferry boats and small but quick hovercrafts can get you to the island of your choosing, even though not all ports and piers in the nation can accept ro- ros.
App-Based Rides
Angkas
The Angkas motorbike taxi service was introduced in 2016, giving Metro Manila and Cebu commuters an efficient avenue to get around. When people in large cities spend hours stuck in traffic every day, it’s no surprise that ride-hailing apps would ramp up attention.
Grab
GrabTaxi is an app that allows users to request taxis from their smartphones. Our goal is to improve the Philippine taxi sector so that it serves the public better and is a source of pride for the Philippines. Grab was commended for being more cost-effective and time-efficient than hailing a cab. In the past, users could always count on the most popular ride-booking service, but today, the tables have turned because of the app’s drastically increased prices. After eradicating its competition, Uber, in a contentious merger, Grab has received numerous complaints claiming it has become more costly.
Which is a better option? Taxi VS. Grab
We can’t ignore the parallels between these two options. We can reach where we need to go with a regular taxi or Grab. However, there are certainly functional differences between the two:
A Taxi…
- is available anywhere on the streets
- can be a good option if you’re already outside
- has reasonable means of fare pricing
However, taxis…
- can be unreliable through heavily jammed roads
- are quite pricey for long-distance rides
- have potential risks of scams due to anonymous drivers you encounter
- can be at a shortage in secluded areas
Grab, on the other hand…
- has a fully-operational online booking system
- gives you the best experience with safe drivers
- allows you to leave reviews for each ride you take
- permits you to check the feedback of other passengers
However, Grab…
- has a booking fee
- can be quite pricey
Security in Public Transit
In the urban areas of the Philippines, pickpocketing and robbery are pervasive problems. International tourists are already a prime target for pickpockets; don’t make yourself an even easier mark by flashing money or possessions. Keep your camera and phone close to your hand, your valuables secure, and your senses on high alert.
So, what is the most efficient mode of transportation in the Philippines? How fast (and risky) you want your journey to be, depends on where you’re headed, how much money you have, and what kind of vehicle you can afford. One thing is certain: getting about is much simpler when you have a local’s advice (but carefully choose who you befriend). And when it comes to vacation planning, our Filipino locals are awesome friends.
