What's the worst experience you've had taking a taxi in the Philippines?
It seems like incidents happen in taxis more than anywhere else here.
Whether it's a minor inconvenience, a scam, or just a hassle, if something happens, the taxi seems like the most likely place for it.
I've had a few experiences myself, and just today a driver demanded money, claiming my young child had "dirtied" his seat. I refused because it seemed like he was just trying to squeeze money out of us.
When driverless taxis come out, I'm sure a lot of people will be thrilled. I doubt anyone will miss seeing the backs of taxi drivers' heads.
A while ago I went to a few casinos near the airport in Manila. I got out of City of Dreams and decided to take a taxi waiting outside to Okada Manila, which is less than 5 minutes away. As soon as I got in, the driver chatted and joked around, and everything seemed normal, but I noticed he hadn't turned on the meter. I said, "Bro, turn on the meter," and he said, "Of course, of course, sir!" but never turned it on. About a minute later, he openly said, "Just give me 2,000 pesos." I actually laughed. ₱2,000 for a trip under 5 minutes? I said I'd pay at most ₱200, and he immediately lowered it to ₱1,000. "Look, I've been coming to the Philippines for years. I don't pay more than 200 pesos." In the end he agreed and let me out. I'm used to the Philippines, so I immediately knew what the scam was. But a first-timer who doesn't know the exchange rate or the usual taxi fare might actually pay that ridiculous amount. Travelers, especially near the Manila casinos, make sure to check that the driver turns on the meter before you leave. If he refuses, get out and flag down another cab. Or just use Grab. I love visiting the Philippines, but it's a shame that some drivers rip off tourists like this.
The best experience was when I took a taxi from the airport to Rosman Hotel in Ermita, and the driver actually used the meter and the fare came to about 150 pesos. I was so happy that I gave him double the fare.
It's simple, just use Grab or Maxim. Avoid regular taxis.
The worst was a few years ago when I crossed the city late at night. The driver kept nodding off, so I had to keep talking to him to wake him up. It was like that then and I think it's the same now, though I'm not sure, but they rent taxis by the 24-hour period, so they keep driving day and night to make back the rental fee.
15 years ago I hailed a taxi in CDO. The driver crossed himself and touched his rosary as we passed a church, then when he stopped the car, he tried to scam me. I asked in disbelief how a Christian could possibly commit fraud. He explained very politely that he had prayed that morning for his financial luck to improve, and that I was the answer. He said God had sent me for him to scam. It was an interesting perspective on how many Filipinos view faith and God, and it wasn't the last time something like this happened.
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