While we often heard or seen incidents of taxi robberies and scams on TV, in the news, or elsewhere, riding a taxi in Manila or other metros in the Philippines is still generally safe. It pays, however, to learn and practice safety measures when riding a taxi. Follow these steps for safe and hassle-free riding:
Before leaving your place:
1. Know and plan your route. If you are going to a place you have not been to before, check Google Maps, Waze or other map apps to find the best route possible. If you do not have access to these, ask for specific instructions on how to get there and for landmarks to help you know you are going in the right direction.
2. Get a rough estimate, whenever possible, of how much the trip would be. That way, you could budget your money and avoid being overcharged.
3. Prepare smaller bills and coins as some drivers may not have or may claim to have no change. This will prevent you from leaving all the change with them or from waiting while they look for some.
4. Make sure your cellphone is charged and has sufficient load so that you can call out if you need to. Store in speed dial all the important numbers you want to call in an emergency and keep your phone in your hand during the trip so you do not waste time looking for it when needed.
5. Make sure that the taxi is “legitimate” by looking for signs such as yellow license plate, clear markings on the car’s body, and a driver in proper uniform. As much as possible, hire cabs from reputable companies like MGE, Sturdy, EMP, R&E, Dollar, and Avis. It is also wise to pre-book the vehicle especially for an evening trip or trip to an unfamiliar destination.
When hailing a taxi:
5. Make sure that the taxi is “legitimate” by looking for signs such as yellow license plate, clear markings on the car’s body, and a driver in proper uniform. As much as possible, hire cabs from reputable companies like MGE, Sturdy, EMP, R&E, Dollar, and Avis. It is also wise to pre-book the vehicle especially for an evening trip or trip to an unfamiliar destination.
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| Photo courtesy: Philippine National Police |
Before getting in:
6. When contracting a taxi, open the rear door but do NOT get in. Tell the driver where you want to go. If you are a foreigner, it is better to show on a piece of paper your target destination while saying it as some drivers may not correctly get what you are saying. If the driver does not know the place, look for another cab unless you know the route.
7. Gauge the driver’s condition. If the driver is drunk, "high", sleepy, tired, or seems unfocused, get a different ride.
8. Check the car first and make sure no one is hiding on the floor or between the seats. Do not get in a taxi when there is someone else besides the driver. Never share a ride with a person you do not know. If, during your journey, the driver stops to pick up a passenger, exit the taxi immediately.
9. Ensure that the driver turns on the fare meter. The driver usually turns the meter on upon you riding. If he forgot, kindly tell him to do so. If he insists for a “fixed” fare, get another taxi, or if you agree, make sure the terms are clear between the two of you.
10. Always take the backseat behind the driver to minimize his chance of assaulting you or taking advantage of you. His seat will serve as a block which will ensure that if something does happen, you’ll have an opportunity to get out.
After getting in:
11. Check whether both doors can be opened from the inside to ensure that you can step out when you need to. Lock the doors as you will be vulnerable from outsiders when the vehicle stops in traffic. Also, ask the driver to lock the front doors.
12. Get the taxi company's name, plate number, and the name of the driver, if possible, and conspicuously send these details to your loved ones so they know who to contact to in case any untoward incident happens. Text back your contact when you have arrived safely. If you are hailing a cab for family members, relatives or friends, make sure to note these details also.
13. Pay attention to the routes you are taking. If the driver suggests to take a shortcut, tell him no unless you are familiar with the area. If possible, use your phone GPS to find a route that does not have high traffic.
14. Be aware of a sudden unlocking of the doors. If someone opens your door, forcefully kick him, run out of the cab and shout for help.
15. Do not be afraid to tell the drivers to slow down if they are going too fast. If they are using their cellphones while driving, remind them that it is illegal in the Philippines. Also, watch out for taxis with flawed fare meter or those using a device called “batingting” to make the meter run faster than the usual. You will know them when you see their meters move too fast. In such cases, tell the driver to drop you off and report them to Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) hotline at 0921-4487777 or 426-2515.
16. Do not give away too much information about yourself to the driver.
17. Stay awake and always be vigilant. If something seems to be wrong, get off.
Upon arrival at destination:
18. Look inside and make sure you have not left any valuables behind before your alight.
19. Pay the exact fare or round it up. It is up to you if you want to give a tip or not. Tipping of taxi drivers is not required, though always well appreciated.
20. If you have luggage in the cab’s trunk, do not pay yet until you have it with you or have your travel companion get the luggage out of the trunk while you wait in the taxi. This will prevent drivers from speeding off and taking your belongings.
The terrible incidents of crimes involving taxis we heard in the news prove how important it is to be cautious at all times. Terrible things can happen anytime, so it is best to be prepared.
Do you have additional tips from your experience? Share it with us in the comments below.
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