Travelling Within Manila

Whether you’re looking to get a scenic view of the sea, visit historical landmarks, engage in some serious retail therapy, or recuperate in a nice spa in the middle of the city, Metro Manila has a number of places for you to visit. The question is: how do you get there ? Because apart from your regular car rentals and taxis, there are, other modes of transportation available.

Backpackers willing to rough it out and soak in the local culture (i.e. brave the heat, dust, crowds, and encounter all sorts of people) can ride public buses, Tamaraw FX, trains, jeepneys, tricycles or pedicabs. Your adventure starts the moment you get on.

Public buses

There are two kinds of buses: air-conditioned and non-airconditioned. For either one, a conductor is on board with a bunch of tickets, punching your details into a stub and collecting the fare. The price you pay varies with the distance of your destination.

For those looking to travel on a non-airconditioned bus, be prepared to be exposed to the elements. Those with a low tolerance for heat are strongly advised not to take this (especially during the summer). Keep your bag within sight and in front of you at all times. Some buses may insist on taking in more passengers despite the fact that the bus is full. Ride on buses lined up in bus stations to avoid having to stand the entire trip.

Tamaraw FX

It’s an air-conditioned Toyota Kijang with a seating capacity of 10. This is commonly used by people who commute to their work (particularly in the Makati area). The lowest fare is P12 (around US ¢26), depending on where you’re going. It’s generally comfortable, and if you are uncertain about where you’re getting off, the drivers are generally helpful enough to inform you about your designated stop. From Manila, you can ride an FX to Antipolo and Laguna, where you will find more tourist destinations.

Trains

There’s the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and the Light Rail Transit (LRT). If you’re looking to travel using this mode of transportation, it might be wise to get an LRT and/or MRT which can be purchased from the TransitLink Ticket Office at selected MRT stations. All you have to do is load it with the amount that you need to cover for fare and swipe it at the designated entrances whenever you ride. It’s a convenient way to get from one point of a city to another and means you’ll avoid most of the heavy traffic.

Jeepneys

These are the trademark vehicles of the Philippines. The first few jeepneys were fashioned out of US military jeeps from World War II. You can easily spot one a mile away because of the flashy exteriors.

Depending on where you are getting off, the lowest fare is P7.50 (US ¢17). Some times, you ride and just pass the fare on to the driver. There are also instances (often in jeepney stations) when the fare is given to an assigned conductor. Ask the driver if you’re unsure.