How To Be Safe in Riding a Taxi

Usually, once you land at the NAIA,  you are often faced with the dilemma of whether or not to take the taxi due to abusive drivers. Just take time to read about this taxi driver who allegedly overcharged a passenger for a trip from the airport to Cubao. Imagine the harrowing experience of these passengers that was allegedly aggravated by the very alarming inaction by the police whom they sought help.

This isolated incident should not deter you from visiting the Philippines. Do not let a few rotten eggs get in your way from seeing the beauty of this country. It is indeed very unfortunate that we have this kind of taxi driver who tarnishes the image of this country. Again, he is just one of the very few. There are more honest taxi drivers whom you can trust while you travel to your destinations in the Philippines.

If you do not have a choice or if you opted to take a taxi to your destination, these are some of the tactics you can employ to ensure that your ride will be safe and hassle-free. To utilize these tactics, it is necessary that you are attentive and fully aware of your surroundings. 

Know your destination - Use an app to get to know your destination like how far is your hotel or accommodation from the airport, approximate time to get there, and possible routes. The barest idea of where you are going is much better than depending solely on the taxi driver to take you to your destination. If you just arrived in Metro Manila from abroad, it is a good move to read these tips such as changing your foreign currency to Philippine Pesos. When changing your currency ask for small bills such as 20, 50 and 100 Pesos for your taxi bill. More often than not, unlike in Davao and Baguio City, taxi drivers in Metro Manila will not give back your change.

Take hold of these numbers - As I said, it is a fact that there are more honest drivers compared to a few rotten individuals. When at a scheme of an unfortunate chance of events, you happen to ride a taxi driven by one who is on the red list, it is a good move to know these numbers where you can call for assistance.

LTFRB - 0917-550-1342; 0998-550-1342
MMDA - Hotline 136; 09175618711 Duty Officer
PNP - Hotline 117; (632)7248869 Highway Patrol Group

The President himself has ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to arrest overcharging taxi drivers for estafa or swindling. He advised passengers to report these overcharging drivers to the police.

Take Note of the taxi's body info - before you get into the taxi take note of its plate number, color, company name, and body number. Text this info to your relative or friend in the event of an emergency. Likewise, take note of the taxi's condition if it is well maintained or not.

Make quick surveillance  - before getting in make sure that it is only the driver who is in the taxi. Otherwise, casually walk away. Likewise, take a quick look at the inside of the vehicle. If the condition is not right or its smells something out of the ordinary, find another cab.

Make sure it is metered - Inform the driver of your destination and make it clear that what you want your ride to be metered. "Contracting", though common in the Philippines is still illegal. If the driver refuses to take you to your destination, another violation is committed which you can report to the authorities. However, it is a better move to avoid any form of altercation at the moment. Just take note of the taxi's info in the event of filing a complaint in the future.

Sit at the back - if you are alone or it's just the two of you, it is a good tactical move to sit at the back and close all doors. If another person suddenly rides at the passenger seat it is better for you to get out immediately especially if you are alone as your safety may be compromised. While seated observe the general condition of the vehicle and take note of the ID of the driver that is supposed to be pinned in front of the taxi.

When you are traveling in the Philippines, dress simply and avoid wearing expensive pieces of jewelry.  If you are to ride a taxi, keep these tips on your mind and everything will be okay. Again, honest taxi drivers outnumber a few rotten ones.