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How bad is traffic in Manila?

50 local experts
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Nobody likes traffic. Not a single soul. Here's what 50 local experts had to say about traffic in Manila. Perhaps you'll find some tips to avoid rush hour and some potholes.

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If moving to Manila, you need to be prepared for a large and diverse city with a vibrant entertainment industry. It’s important to consider the high cost of living and a competitive housing market, so budgeting and planning ahead is crucial. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the city’s traffic patterns and transportation options to navigate the sprawling urban area effectively.

Leizeil, says: 2023

One considering moving to my city should know that when traveling to any major roads in the city, he/she will encounter heavy traffic. Consequently traveling to another destination must be done at least an hour ahead of the scheduled meeting in order not to be late. And when get stuck in the traffic, always bring bottled water to help quench the thirst along the way.

Julius, says: 2020

He or she must know the heavy traffic jamming the road. He or she must also have an idea of the different cultures Manila has. Also, knowledge and idea regarding the different places would be good. He or she must also know the socio-economic situation of the Philippines specifically Manila.

Imelda, says: 2020

It is a large capital city with many people from all walks of life.There is a great deal of traffic and sometimes it is difficult to go from one place to another. There is a beautiful bay near the city where you can walk and see the sunset and lots of ships moving in the ocean.

Dranoel, says: 2020

If you are someone considering to move into Manila you should know the following:

1. Live near where you’ll work – That would be the best since Manila has the worst traffic. So the less time you spend on your commute, the better your life will be.

2. Commute and Public Transportation – In the event that you will need to commute going from and to your workplace, you need to be early if you don’t want to be late on your work and/or be the cause of delay if you have any important event/schedule that you need to attend to, since it’s pretty hard to do daily commute especially if you don’t have your own car.

3. Internet Connection. You should also do a bit of research regarding internet connectivity in the area where you choose to settle. Areas where telecoms offer high speed internet (50mbps and above) are limited, so you might want to take that into consideration.

4. Be mindful of your belongings – I’m not saying that it is not safe to roam around manila, but you must be vigilant, observant and alert at all times to prevent any unlikely incident like pick-pocketing, snatching, etc.

5. Prepare for hot and rainy weather. All that concrete makes the city oppressively hot, and when the humidity kicks in, it’s even worse. Make sure you hydrate and carry sunblock. Again, where you live will go a long way. On the other hand, you’ll need a good waterproof jacket, preferably something light. It may be raining, but it might still get hot if you’re wearing heavy clothing. An umbrella’s suitability in Manila is short, and it won’t be of any help if you’re caught in horizontal winds. Some good waterproof shoes, sort of buying rubber boots, will go a long way when the streets are covered in puddles.

Manila has always been plagued by heavy traffic. If you are renting a boarding house, you must choose a strategic location where you are close to the MRT – LRT station and supermarkets so that commuting will be easy.

Avigail, says: 2020

Consider the heavy traffic jam and lack of proper public transportation. Having an automobile would be best to get from one point to another. Traffic jam is terrible yet if you are using your own car, it is more convenient and cozy dealing with it. You also have to possess enough patience to get by.

Christia, says: 2020

Manila is densely populated. Aside from a high population density, the city is also polluted. It is also very humid during afternoons. If you wish to live in Manila, be prepared to live with the heavy traffic, overpopulation, and high humidity. Fortunately, the people are approachable and can usually speak in English, so communication won’t be a problem.

The City of Manila is a busy city, traffic is bad and it is polluted. You will hear people shouting and scrambling just to get in to their jobs or schools. Despite of these, the City of Manila has a lot of history. Every streets, buildings, churches and even school has taken part of our history. The citizens of Manila may lack discipline but they are constantly improving and fixing what needs to be fixed.

Manila is the capital of the Philippines. The city is on the island of Luzon, the biggest island in the country. It is a congested place because it is the center of political, economic and social activity. It is a highly urbanized city. It has major attractions ranging from heritage and cultural tourist spots.

Trixia, says: 2020

Manila like other cosmopolitan cities has its pros and cons. Availability of jobs is greater than in other cities in the Philippines. Expats will find the friendly disposition and English proficiency of most Filipinos a plus factor to set up their businesses or companies here. Although the horrendous traffic in the city may be discouraging to those who are used to efficient mass transport systems.

Manila is the capital of the Philippines. There are many landmarks and beautiful scenery upon which you could explore. There are also a ton of malls and different kinds of restaurants around the metro. The only downside of the city is that traffic is worse and it is overpopulated.

If moving to and or visiting Manila, you should be wary of traffic and or safety regulations to avoid having future inconveniences in the future. Also, one must be vigilant of people in the surroundings due to a high number of individuals, especially in markets and or malls. one must throw any type of trash in a correct trash bin to maintain the cleanliness of the city itself.

Renier, says: 2020

Someone moving to Manila should be prepared for the terrible traffic. Manila is the capital of the county, so a lot of government agencies and organizations are in the city. You can also find the university belt, where a lot of university and college campuses are located. All these contribute to massive traffic jam, especially during rush hours.

Chrissia, says: 2020

Manila is a city known for its traffic, pollution, poverty and chaos. A disaster, one might say. But as cliche as this might sound, Manila is a beautiful disaster. The city wakes up by 7am to sell on the streets, the bells of the big Catholic churches start to ring, and everyone starts chasing time. Manila is a city of culture.

Jezreel, says: 2020

Traffic has always been problematic in Manila. As someone who has been living in the city for a couple of years without a car, the commute has always been an issue for me. It is debatable whether the problem is the public transportation or the private vehicles used by those who can afford one. Nonetheless, once you leave during the rush hour, expect traffic to make your usual 15 minute drive into at least an hour drive.

Janine, says: 2020

If a person would be moving to Manila, that person should be ready for heavy traffic, streets filled with vehicles and people at the same time, the overwhelming scent of the city, and most importantly, meeting different kinds of people.

Audrey, says: 2020

Traffic in Manila is horrible. You can spend an hour sitting in traffic when it’s possible to get to the location in 15 minutes. You really need to allot time for the commute to ensure you aren’t late. Unfortunately, poverty is also very present in this city. You will see homeless families living on the street. It is common to find children begging for money and food. There are places to eat at almost every corner so you won’t go hungry even if you can’t cook. There are also malls nearby so you’ll never be starved for entertainment.

Someone moving to Manila should know the following:
1. Unbeatable heat – Since Manila is near the equator, the temperature is really high especially during summer.
2. Unending traffic on the road – One of the major problems of my city is congested roads especially during rush hours.
3. Manila has a few of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Niliza, says: 2020

Manila is a diverse city, with people from many ethnicities living together in harmony. Wherever you go, people will greet you with a smile despite experiencing hardship themselves. There is a vast plethora of shopping malls and restaurants to choose from, offering different cuisines from all over the word. The only thing is that you must have a lot of patience while travelling through the metro, as traffic can really be bad especially during certain times of the day.

Someone moving to Manila City, Philippines should first consider the hot climate. One should bring breathable clothes which are suitable for hot weather. The slow traffic and narrow roads must also be expected. People are friendly. Most of them could speak in English. Thus, there could be no problem with communication.

In Manila, one should expect heavy traffic all the time and that the city is overpopulated. Also, it can be very dangerous at night and it is important to be observant all the time but overall I enjoy living here because I have my freedom and its convenient.

Jasper, says: 2020

If you would like to go to our city (Manila) you may consider to adapting traffic here because it can affect your everyday schedule and livelihood. You may also consider the air here because unfortunately our air here is polluted. You also may consider the people here because not every Filipino are honest and trustworthy but that does not reflect every Filipino.

Sprite, says: 2020

Manila is a very traffic prone city, so you have to be patient in commuting around the city. If you will be relocating in the city for work, you should consider getting a place that is only 10 – 15 minutes walking distance from your workplace. This would surely save you from the anxiety and stress of being late for work.

Someone who thinks of moving here should know life is like the ones from other big cities. The lifestyle is convenient as there are many establishments for consumption and needed services such as laundry, payment centers, etc. One thing that really produce great inconvenience is the heavy traffic. I usually walk rather walk rather than commute.

Melissa, says: 2020

Manila, whether by day or night, is a lively and colorful place. That’s what makes it a preferred tourist destination. It is a busy city too, offering many investment opportunities, making the city attractive to business people. traffic is a known trademark of Manila, and it teaches discipline to people especially with time management.

Wherlina, says: 2020

This city is known for its sweltering summers and torrential rainy season. Prepare to be stuck in traffic for hours on end. Be ready with a smile and congenial manner; Filipinos do not take kindly to stuck-up individuals. Finally, prepare to be surprised; around each rundown corner lies treasure yet to be discovered.

Patricia, says: 2020

Those moving to Manila should know traffic here is horrible. A 20-minute walk would result in an hour drive. The public transportation here is somewhat bearable because you have lots of options but leave early for you to have arrive to your designated place in time.

Charisse, says: 2020

Manila is the capital and the busiest city in the Philippines. Traffic is heavy while MRT (Metro Trail Transit), taxis and buses are the major means of transportation to travel around the city. It’s a great place to visit historical sites such as Intramuros, where the trace of antiquity and war is visibly depicted by the remaining walls surrounding the small area.

Jerell, says: 2020

Be aware of how traffic it is, especially in the morning. You have to wake up early to go to a certain place because the road gets jammed early. You should also prepare to be vigilant at all times, since there are a lot of robberies happening in my city. Those are just the basic hat you need to know.

If you are interested in moving to Manila, you should brace yourself for the heavy traffic that every citizen will endure that resides in the city. It is best to choose an apartment or condo unit that is near the university you’re currently enrolled in or to your current occupation. You’ll most likely use public transportation or have your vehicle unless you live very near to your desired destination.

One must be ready for the muggy weather during summer and the torrential downpours during the rainy season. Develop your patience; Manila traffic is notorious for driving even the most saintly person to fits of rage. Finally, consider whether or not you are ready to live in a city that thrives on malls rather than parks; there are few outdoor spaces in Manila.

Martha, says: 2020

For someone moving to my city in, he should know it is always traffic whether you use a private transportation vehicle or a public transportation vehicle. The advantage of living here is that the malls are everywhere. The cost of living is also not so expensive unlike the other cities. you should have a long patience if you consider living here.

he/she needs to consider the commute time and public transportation. Because Manila is one of the most congested city in the world. Most especially if you don’t have a private car, you will struggle and have a hard time going to different places.

If moving to Manila, you must prepare yourself for the horrendous traffic jam wherever you go. With the said traffic jam, you must train yourself to wake up at dawn and leave your residence before sunrise. Time management is of great importance in commuting in the City of Manila.

Nowela, says: 2020

Manila is heavily crowded, expect a lot of people walking around during the day. Also, dense population means more cars that results to heavy traffic. Summers are extremely humid and hot. During the afternoon temperature can go up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. But there are a lot of good hearted people in Manila, we are known globally for our hospitality.

Jesette, says: 2020

The first thing one should consider when moving to Manila is traffic. It could take a longer time to travel or move within the area during rush hours. It would be better to walk if the place you are going to is just nearby. However, some areas are not that safe when walking so just be alert.

Someone moving to Manila must think twice. Our city is suffering from heavy traffic daily. Our government is very inefficient. He or she must not expect a good quality of life in my city. Despite the negative characteristic of Manila, people are very hospitable and helpful.

Lorena, says: 2020

Manila is well-known for its prestigious sites that hold history’s receipts. It is perceived as one of the busiest cities in the Philippines. Most people move to Manila to pursue their education and to hunt for jobs. However, it is important to note that citizens who hope to stay long in the city should be pragmatic and audacious enough to overcome daily hurdles. Among the issues that city has not yet resolved is the heavy traffic.

Lumiere, says: 2020

If one moves here, they should be able to withstand the heat. Sometimes the temperature reaches 38 degrees Celsius at least. Aside from that they should also be able to withstand traffic. Manila is regarded as one of the worst places to drive mainly because of traffic.

Jannette, says: 2020

If someone would want to move to Manila, they should know about the heavy traffic, and the poor public transportation system. One usually needs to allot 1-2 hours for traveling, alone, within the Metro. However, despite this, Manila is a wonderful city filled with people who are kind and who are always willing to help someone who is new in the city. It is a place of many opportunities and despite the many bad reasons to stay here, there are much more reasons to want to reside in this beautiful city.

Mariel, says: 2020

Manila is the capital of the Philippines. Hence, it is heavily congested with people. Because of the large population, there is also a greater amount of pollution, compared to rural areas. Despite these issues, the city of Manila allows their residents to have a wide access to institutions, such as education, health, banks, and others. It is a city teeming with life and abundant opportunity.

Once known as the ‘Paris of Asia,’ the city of Manila prides itself on its glorious history and has its role as a prime platform for the country’s regional, national, and global activity. It has endured decades of war and siege, constantly rising from ruins and recovering resilience, allowing it to thrive today as a paradoxical metropolis. Beyond its vibrant shell lies its true chaotic nature which manifests itself in grinding poverty, monstrous congestion, and despairing sighs from individuals who dare to tame this magnificent beast. However, it is the same courage that weaves arteries for dreams, either selfish or selfless, to flourish — and ultimately, keep Manila alive.

Marilyn, says: 2020

the place where I live is the capital region of this country. For a person who would want to move here, he must know that everything that is essential to make a living is here. There are nearby hospitals, malls, universities,, etc. But, one thing that must be considered is traffic that is evident in the city.

Manila is the capital of the Philippines. The weather is usually hot. The business district can be found at Makati City and Bonifacio Global City. Expect heavy traffic near these places since these are congested areas.

Maricor, says: 2020

Manila having known as the capital of the Philippines, is a busy city. you should prepare yourself from the heavy traffic and scorching heat or even the floods when it starts raining here. Aside from that, Manila can offer you lots of opportunities but what you need all along is your perseverance. brace yourself as you come here because this city may bring you in a roller-coaster ride.

If someone is to move to this city, they should be well informed of the following. One, they must get used to traffic. Two, it is a very hot city, so they must prepare clothing and other necessities to combat the heat, if they had come from a cold place.

Seychelle, says: 2020

It is a very busy city. You would hear the noise of traffic and people bustling from one place to another. In this city, there are a lot of large buildings towering over each other. It is filled with surprises and hidden places you would want to visit as well.

When moving to Manila, be prepared for the insane amount of traffic that you will encounter daily. Seeing as the current global climate is more about staying home, however, it may be wishful thinking for anyone to consider moving cities at this time.

Gloria, says: 2020

Manila is a tropical city where the people enjoy the sun. There is a monsoon season between May and September, where rains come almost everyday. There are many cultural spots in the city which can appeal to tourists and locals. Traffic is heavy through the metro, but there are several options for transportation. Most would take the train as the fastest way to commute, or public jeepneys which have regular routes.

Rogelle, says: 2020
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