When visiting the Philippines or any other country where taxi and ride-sharing services are available, you must be cautious and vigilant of your surroundings. Taking a taxi or riding with a stranger can always be risky, so knowing how to stay safe while traveling is essential.
Here are 10 tips for taking a taxi or ride-sharing service that will help you keep safe and enjoy your trip. Following these simple guidelines will ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Importance of Using Taxis or Ride-Sharing Services in the Philippines
In the Philippines, taking a taxi or ride-sharing service instead of driving yourself can be an extremely beneficial decision. Taxi and rideshare services provide an alternative to the traditional “point-to-point” traffic that can plague any city’s streets while reducing road accidents due to alcohol-related incidents.
Moreover, they are convenient and often more cost-effective than other solutions: passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride without needing to wait in queues or look for parking spaces. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also safe: drivers are screened and provided with ratings so riders know who they’re getting into their car with, as well as extra protection against unforeseen events. Ultimately, these services offer Filipinos an efficient way to get around whilst protecting their security at the same time.
1. Choose Reputable Companies
Choosing a reputable company is a crucial step in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience when taking a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines. Make sure to do your research and read reviews online before booking a ride. Only use services with good ratings and feedback.
Look for a Licensed Taxi or Ride-Sharing Companies
To ensure your safety and peace of mind, it is recommended to look for a licensed taxi or ride-sharing company. These companies are subject to regulations and are held accountable for their actions, ensuring a higher level of safety for their passengers.
Read Reviews and Ratings from Previous Customers
In addition to looking for a licensed company, it is also a good idea to read reviews and ratings from previous customers. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of the service, the reliability of the drivers, and the overall customer experience. They can also give you a better understanding of the company’s reputation, and help you make an informed decision when choosing a service.
2. Know the Fares and Charges Beforehand
Knowing the fares and charges beforehand is a key factor in having a successful and stress-free experience when using taxi or ride-sharing services in the Philippines. Both Grab and Uber provide an estimate of the ride cost on their apps before you confirm the booking. This means that there are no hidden charges or unexpected costs once the journey is over.
Research On the Average Fares
Before booking your ride, it’s important to research the average fares for the service you’re planning to use. This can give you a general idea of what you should expect to pay for the ride, and help you determine if the fare being offered is fair or if you need to negotiate it.
Understand the Charges for Extra Services like Tolls and Baggage Fees
It’s also important to understand the charges for any extra services that may be required during your ride, such as tolls or baggage fees. Some taxi or ride-sharing services may have a flat fee for tolls, while others may charge an additional fee for each toll booth you pass through. Baggage fees may also be a separate charge, so be sure to check beforehand if your service of choice charges extra for luggage.
3. Check the Driver’s Credentials
Before you book your ride, make sure to check the driver’s credentials. Look for their name, photo, and license number so that you can verify their identity and ensure that they are licensed and regulated.
Verify the License Plate and Driver’s ID
One important step in achieving this is to check the driver’s credentials. Before getting into the vehicle, it is important to verify the license plate and driver’s identification to make sure they match the information provided by the company.
Take Note of the Driver’s Name and Photo
It is also recommended to take note of the driver’s name and photo, as this can be helpful in case of any incidents during the ride. By checking the driver’s credentials, you can ensure that you are getting into the correct vehicle and with a legitimate and licensed driver.
4. Keep your Belongings Safe
Keeping your belongings safe is a crucial aspect of using a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines. Always keep your valuables close to you and never leave them in the car unattended.
Do Not Leave Valuables in Plain Sight
To minimize the risk of theft or loss, it is important to keep your valuables out of plain sight. This means not leaving items like wallets, smartphones, or jewelry in visible areas where they can easily be seen by others.
Store Items in Secure Places
It is also recommended to store your items in secure places, such as a bag or purse that can be placed on the floor or in the trunk of the vehicle. This helps prevent theft and keeps your belongings within reach in case you need them during the ride.
5. Communicate with the Driver
Communicating with the driver is an important aspect of using a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines. By communicating your needs and expectations, you can help ensure that the driver is aware of your requirements and that you are both on the same page.
Be Clear about Your Destination
When booking your ride, be sure to communicate your destination clearly. This will help the driver know where you need to go and avoid any unnecessary detours or delays that can arise from misunderstandings.
Inform the Driver of Any Special Requests
It is also important to inform the driver of any special requests before or during your ride. For example, if you need to make a quick stop or need assistance with luggage, be sure to communicate this as soon as possible.
6. Be Mindful of the Route
Being mindful of the route is an important aspect of using a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines. Whenever possible, try to avoid quiet or isolated areas.
Check the Route and Estimated Time of Arrival
Checking the route and the estimated time of arrival before your ride can help you stay informed and prepared for your trip. Additionally, it can give you a better idea of the expected duration and any potential delays or detours.
Avoid Isolated or Dangerous Areas
It is also important to avoid isolated or dangerous areas during your ride. If the driver takes a route that makes you feel uncomfortable, ask to be taken on a different route or consider canceling the ride and finding another option.
7. Stay Alert and Vigilant
Staying alert and vigilant is key when taking a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines. Always remain aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right.
Keep an Eye on the Meter to Ensure Accurate Fares
Keeping an eye on the meter to ensure accurate fares is one way to stay informed and avoid overpaying for your ride. If you notice any discrepancies or unexpected charges, do not hesitate to speak up and ask for clarification.
Share Your Location
One important step in ensuring your safety when taking a taxi or ride-sharing service is to share your location with someone you trust. This way, if something were to happen during the ride, they would be able to track your whereabouts and come to your aid.
8. Ask for a Receipt
Asking for a receipt is a simple but essential step in using a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines. Having a receipt will allow you to verify any charges and have proof of the ride in case of disputes or discrepancies.
Request a Printed or Digital Receipt
Requesting a printed or digital receipt not only helps ensure accuracy in billing but also provides you with important details about your trip. Having a receipt can serve as proof of payment and can also provide valuable information about the driver, vehicle, and route is taken, which can be useful in case of any incidents or disputes.
Keep Receipts as Proof of Payment and Trip Details
It is recommended to keep receipts from your rides for a certain period of time, especially if you are a frequent user of taxi or ride-sharing services. This can help you keep track of your expenses and be a reference in case of any issues.
9. Respect for the Driver and the Vehicle
Respecting the driver and the vehicle is an important aspect of using a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines. By being respectful and mindful of the driver and vehicle, you can help ensure a positive and enjoyable ride experience for everyone involved.
Avoiding Eating, Drinking, or Smoking in the Vehicle
Avoiding behaviors like eating, drinking, or smoking in the vehicle can help maintain a clean and pleasant environment for both the driver and passengers.
Avoid Playing Loud music or Making Loud Noises
Additionally, avoiding playing loud music or making loud noises can be considerate of others and also help reduce the risk of attracting unwanted attention or causing a disturbance.
10. Use GPS Tracking
Using GPS tracking is a great way to stay safe and informed when using a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines. By tracking your ride, you can see the driver’s current location and the estimated time of arrival, as well as receive notifications if there are any changes to the route or schedule.
Enable GPS Tracking on Your Smartphone
By enabling GPS tracking on your smartphone, you can monitor the driver’s route and speed, ensuring that you are being taken to your destination in the most efficient and safe manner. GPS tracking can also provide peace of mind by allowing you to know your exact location at all times, which can be especially helpful in case of any incidents or emergencies.
Monitor the Driver’s Route and Speed
In addition to enabling GPS tracking on your smartphone, it is also recommended to keep an eye on the driver’s route and speed. This can help you verify that you are being taken on the most efficient route and that the driver is not exceeding the speed limit.
In Conclusion
Taking a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around. However, it is important to take certain steps to ensure your safety and enjoy a stress-free journey.
By following these 10 tips for using a taxi or ride-sharing service in the Philippines, you can ensure a smooth and safe ride while protecting yourself from any unnecessary risks. So the next time you need transportation, keep these guidelines in mind and enjoy a hassle-free trip!
