5 Facts About Transportation and Traffic in Manila
Are
you scared of the horrible Manila traffic? Let's set things straight. Whether
you're staying for a few days or transiting to another flight, you should be
aware.
What
should you know about Manila traffic? Here are 5 Facts about transportation and
traffic in Manila to help you plan your trip.
2nd
Worst Traffic in the World (2019)
Metro
Manila is infamous for its gridlocked roads, but how does it fair around the
world? The TomTom traffic index measures urban congestion of over 416 cities
across 57 countries using a standardized congestion percentage.
When
a country is ranked with 20% congestion, it means you have an additional 20%
time to complete a 30-minute ride. An amount above 50% means the city is
heavily congested.
According
to the TomTom Traffic Index 2019, Metro Manila has the 2nd worst traffic in the
world, only second to Bengaluru, India. It has average congestion of 71%. But
this goes worse during rush hours.
It's
Either Traffic or Super Traffic
In
the TomTom Traffic Report, traffic in Manila (Monday to Friday) starts at
around 6 AM with 65% to 73% congestion, peaks at 89% to 99% at 8 AM. Congestion
from 9 AM to 2 PM hovers at around 69% to 99%.
If
you think that's awful, wait until you travel during the night rush hour. It
starts at around 3 PM with 69% to 105% congestion and peaks at 6 PM with 112%
to 143% congestion. Congestion after 6PM averages around 69% to 123% until 10
PM.
It's
no surprise that an average commute would go around 1 hour 30 mins PER WAY.
Yes, it's like a flight to another country already.
If
you think there are windows of time when Manila isn't traffic, well prepare to
wake up during ungodly hours. There is relatively low congestion after 10 PM
until 5 AM the next day.
Rain
and High-Profile Events Intensifies Traffic Further
The
data above shows a "normal day." So, how does it look like during
"special events"? If it's raining hard, a high-profile event happens,
or a concert is held from someone famous, prepare to be shocked in the wrong
way.
Just
check out the ASEAN summit held a few years ago. Roads are transformed into
parking lots with a turtle-like movement.
And
it's similar during concerts. In my personal experience, a 45-minute commute
from the edge of EDSA became 6 hours because of a high-profile show. I'm
looking at you, Britney Spears.
It
was such a traumatic moment. As much as possible, I vowed not to commute during
big concerts. That could've been 75% of the flight to Australia.
Public
Transportation is Inefficient
If
you want to feel like sardines packed in a tin can, try out Manila's public transportation, especially during the rush hour.
There are lines far beyond your wildest dreams. Literally.
Just
look at this article showing people lining an hour or more just to alight the
train. And the cramped space doesn't help. To make matters worse, train
malfunctions are quite frequent.
As
to buses, the queues are really long as well with operators populating the
buses to over maximum capacity. Imagine people standing at the bus corridor
fully-packed, again, like a can of sardines. And don't get me started with
security dangers from thieves.
And
regular taxis are no better. Taxis are notorious
for being unethical in the Philippines.
Most
are infamous for being choosy to your drop off location. Taxis even overcharge,
especially if you're a foreigner riding from NAIA.
Public
transportation is inefficient. And as much as you want to immerse yourself in a
country's culture, I feel you don't need to suffer and immerse in this aspect.
There
are Convenient Transportation Options
With
your stay in Manila, there are still convenient ways to go around. It might not
be the cheapest, but it can save you the hassle from all the horrors above.
Here are some you might want to consider.
P2P
Buses
Point-to-point
or P2P Buses is a convenient transportation option spearheaded by the
Department of Transportation. The difference between regular buses is that P2P
buses travel just from one point to another. It doesn't stop in between, which
causes a lot of delays in your travel time.
Also,
they just accommodate passengers up to standard capacity, and the interior is
maintained well. You can enjoy it with prices at around 100 PHP or $2 only.
Check the schedules and routes here.
Anis
Transport Car Rental
Instead
of riding a regular taxi, the better option is through Anis Transport. With Anis Transport, you can book
your rides and know how much to pay beforehand.
Also,
they are not picky with your destination, and they don't demand unsolicited
tips. But in general, it's a good option when you go around Manila.
Van
Rentals
If
you need to go to many places or want to be secured with your airport
transfers, why not get a van rental?
With
this, you are sure that someone will pick you up on your arrival regardless if
its rush hour. If you want to stop by a particular place first before you go to
your final stop, it's possible. It's like having your own private chauffeur who
can do your bidding.
Also,
security is better. You don't share your ride with anyone else. And the drivers
can wade around the crazy roads of Metro Manila. (If you tried driving in
Manila, you would understand.)
You
can get a quotation as fast as 24 hours before your arrival. Check the rates
here.
Conclusion
Traveling
in the Philippines doesn't have to be a nightmare. For just a relatively small
amount, you can choose the more convenient travel options so that you are left
to enjoy what matters most - relaxing your mind and enjoying what the city can
offer.
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