Public transportation in the Philippines

Okay, so you manage to fly over to the Philippines, got yourself in a hotel overnight and the next morning you wanna move around the city and explore. What next?? if you are the kind of traveler who prefers convenience inside an air conditioned vehicle, then yes, renting a car or getting a cab or uber or grab would be for you but in an adventurous perspective you cannot really savor the experience visiting a place if you don't try how the locals do it, thus you've got 2 options go around in a trike (tricycle) or hop inside Jeeps.

This is what makes the Philippines a little different, on most main roads these smaller motorcycle transport services aren't allowed therefore they would normally stay on smaller side streets, and Yes because of the huge American influence they use tricycles in the Philippines off course with their own twists.

We have to say it's not exactly safe when going on main roads with these smaller means of transportation therefore its more advisable and considerably cheaper to take jeeps. Again sure there are local buses but the idea that you can always take a bus almost anywhere in the world makes it less interesting.

Here is a video to give you the idea of the experience riding a Jeep.

(source https://www.youtube.com/user/jeiyani/)

So a couple of things you should know in the Philippines:

1. Prefered currency is Philippine Peso and prefered payment is CASH.

2. A quick jeep ride has a base price of 7-10 Pesos prices go up and down from time to time

3. The Philippines is a tropical place so yes it is HUMID and HOT on summers and the weather can change any moment.

4. Although the Philippines is considerably safe jewelries, phones, gadgets or any valuables, if you don't need them don't bring them on public while walking or riding public transport just like most countries there is a chance you can get your purse or phone , etc... snatched/grabbed.

5. Jeeps typically have sign boards at the front and at the sides but still always check with the driver for your destination.

6. As long as you can read and speak English it's next to impossible to get lost in the Philippines, just don't loose your wallet because obviously you need money to travel.

7. Make sure you have a local sim with data and a good enough smart phone for Grab or Uber yes they work here and these guys can't jack the prices on you unlike some shady local cabs.

Did I miss anything? suggestions? reactions? Let me know on the comments or shoot me an email

JC Capuyan

jccapuyan@gmail.com