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Metro Manila (Filipino: Kalakhang Maynila), on the island of Luzon, is the national capital region of the Philippines. With a population of about 24 million people (2015), it is the smallest and most populous administrative region of the country, contributing 37% of the Philippines' GDP. It is the country's center of administration, business, education, diplomacy and entertainment, a huge metropolis with massive social contrasts which may even exceed those in Latin America, and are reflected in the contrasts of urban landscapes.

With massive traffic jams and a reputation for insecurity relative to other Southeast Asian cities, Metro Manila is often considered to be a challenging city to explore, but in reality, the contrasts are precisely what makes the city a great destination to both most spoiled and the most adventurous travellers.

Expect local customs and behaviours to be different from the rest of the Philippines. Metro Manila locals are more sophisticated than those in the countryside, yet expect customs, behaviors, and situations that may upset first-time visitors.

Regions

 Manila
The bustling, crowded and noisy City of Manila, which in Metro Manila terms is the "old city center", is home to much of the country's history and culture. It is the only city in Metro Manila which is divided into districts, of which there are sixteen.
 Eastern Metro Manila (Quezon City, Marikina, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan)
Quezon City is the largest and most populous city of Metro Manila, also containing some of the country's best universities. In this area you can find some of the largest parks and shopping malls of the Philippines, as well as one of Manila's main business districts, the Ortigas Center.
 Camanava Area (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela)
A largely working-class area, it has a notorious reputation for being flood-prone during rainy season, with some areas below sea level. Also known as the gateway to central and northern Luzon, it is home to heritage houses and Metro Manila's largest fish market.
 Southern Metro Manila (Makati, Pasay, Taguig, Pateros, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Las Piñas)
Contains the Ninoy Aquino airport and some of the most affluent areas of Metro Manila, as well as major business districts (including Makati, Bonifacio Global City in Taguig and Filinvest City in Muntinlupa) and a plethora of entertainment, including the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay and the Entertainment City in Parañaque. It is in some sense the "modern" city center of Manila.

Cities

Metro Manila is home to the country's business districts, wealth extremes and major shopping centers, with a combined population of 11 million and growing.

  • 1 Manila — Metro Manila's historical core, although partly dilapidated by World War II, contains a rich colonial history, a vast collection of excellent museums and monuments, as well as some of the city's most colourful, vibrant neighbourhoods
  • 2 Quezon City — The largest and most populous city of Metro Manila and its major Information Technology hub is where the Quezon Memorial Circle is located, as are important universities, government buildings, and gigantic shopping malls
  • 3 Caloocan — The main hub of people from the Northern Philippines. Known to be one of the 4 original cities of Metro Manila, along side Manila, Quezon City, and Pasay City
  • 4 Parañaque — Containing the Entertainment City with four giant casinos and attached shopping malls and entertainment venues
  • 5 Pasay — Home to the gigantic Mall of Asia and the attached music venue and festive amusement park, and to the Resorts World Manila casino and integrated resort
  • 6 Pasig — A city named after the river next to it, the Pasig River. It is an industrial town with a booming business district in the uptown Ortigas Center. Downtown Pasig is home to more rustic churches, American period houses, and excellent cuisine.
  • 7 Makati — Metro Manila's largest business district famous for its tall buildings, luxurious hotels, vast shopping malls, lively entertainment spots, and numerous restaurants, but also containing the historic Poblacion neighbourhood which is the city's Koreatown
  • 8 Mandaluyong — Nicknamed the shopping capital of the Philippines for its collection of numerous shopping centers.
  • 9 Taguig — First a thriving fishing community which slowly developed into an urbanized city. Contains one of the city's wealthiest and most pedestrian-friendly areas, the Bonifacio Global City (BGC), the McKinley Hill neighbourhood with its copies of Italy, and the beautiful and serene Manila American Cemetery and Memorial

Other destinations

Understand

Locals and foreigners refer to Metro Manila simply as Manila. Administratively speaking, however, "Manila" is the name of one of the cities that composes the Metro Manila. Consisting of 16 cities and 1 municipality in 630 km², the metro is the national capital region, and the center of Philippine culture, arts, commerce, industry, and tourism. Metro Manila likewise serves as the pivot point to other exciting, popular destinations in the Philippines such as Boracay, Cebu City, and Davao City.

Metro Manila is a multi-polar city with major business, shopping and leisure areas scattered across the city, rather than concentrated in a compact Downtown. However, southern Metro Manila containing Makati, Bonifacio Global City and the Entertainment City contains a large share of the city's most upscale areas and wealthiest residents, whereas Manila city proper concentrates much of the city's historical heritage and cultural options.

Metro Manila is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, and further observation can mean Manila further grows into the suburban sprawl in the nearby provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Rizal, Laguna, and even Batangas, along the expressway corridors composed of North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) in the north, and Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEx), South Luzon Expressway (SLEx), and Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR Tollway) in the south. This travel guide, however, covers only the area that form Metro Manila, and all nearby suburbs outside it are part of their respective provinces.

First-time travellers to developing metropolises will meet Metro Manila with culture shock; you may find yourself around cacophonous traffic, crowding, urban blight, corruption, and jarring behaviors. That's why Dan Brown labelled Metro Manila as the "gates to hell" in Inferno after a character told her experience as a NGO worker in the metro's slums (spoiler alert!), despite the public backlash when it made headlines. Once you got around the chaotic environment, you may find that cultural diversity abounds. Staying in sterile areas of the metro, avoiding travel during rush hour or rough weather, and maintaining a high level of vigilance can help you get around hassle-free.

People

Unlike some other Asian cities, in Metro Manila most people can speak English, can read and write in Roman text, do not feel comfortable with chopsticks, and enjoy more watching basketball and boxing rather than football and badminton.

Manila has a unique blend of Asian and Western elements: many Western elements are an intrinsic part of the Filipino identity and culture, rather than being introduced during the city's modernisation and integration to the globalised world. This blend can be found in the language (e.g. written English vs. spoken Tagalog), in the religion (e.g. Christian mausoleums sitting next to Buddhist ones at the Manila Chinese Cemetery in Santa Cruz), in the cuisine and many other aspects of day-to-day life — for instance, both trishaws and American World War II vehicles are used as major forms of public transportation.

Chinese influence is also large, and fundamentally different from other Southeast Asian countries in the sense that many Filipino-Chinese have adopted Christianity and both integrated themselves to and shaped the Filipino culture, rather than forming a separate community.

Metro Manila's population is a diverse mix of multi-racial people and people from different classes — from the richest businessmen to the poorest of the poor. The streets of Binondo in Manila is Metro Manila's Chinatown, while the district of Paco is known as Little India and Japantown. European and American enclaves are found in Business districts where urban life is enjoyed and quite similar to the western lifestyle. Koreans forever everywhere and anywhere have resulted in Koreatown which is in Makati City's Burgos St. which features many Korean restaurants, shops and groceries. The growth of immigrants is due to the cheap cost for education and living in the Philippines. This is also a home to many of the rich and famous which most reside in Forbes Park, and is home to many homeless and the poorest of the poor who seek job opportunities in this metropolis. Efforts have been made to clear slums in order to clean the Pasig River which have been reportedly successful and sustainable.

Religion

Religion is a major key role in a local Filipino's life, Hindu, Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian temples are found, the Golden mosque is in Quiapo; the Filipino-Muslim district, while cathedrals, churches and chapels of various Christian denominations are scattered around mostly of Roman Catholic faith. Processions of holy images are carried through in some cities of Metro Manila and during these times streets are crowded with a little space to move around or sometimes no space to move around.

Economy

Metro Manila is a haven for investors and businessmen and the region accounts about 30% of the total GDP of the Philippines. It is also where major Filipino companies have their headquarters. Business, commercial and financial districts include Makati, Ortigas (Pasig and Mandaluyong) and Taguig, which is where the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSEi) is located.

Orientation

It sits near two notoriously dangerous volcanoes: Mount Pinatubo to the north, which made headlines in 1991 when it spewed dust all over the world and dropped global temperature by 2°, and Taal Volcano to the south which makes headlines every decade or so. What's more, it lies in the path of the tropical monsoon bringing typhoons during the second half of the year. It is fringed to the south by the idyllic lake Laguna de Bay — a veritable scenic showcase of Hispanized native folk and traditional culture, and farther south by cool and refreshing Lake Taal.

Talk

Communication with the locals is easy because almost everyone is bilingual. Filipino is the language of the locals. It is the chosen language at home to most. It is also the language of the media and movie industries as Manileños watch TV and movies and read newspapers in Filipino.

English is widely spoken in urban areas of the Philippines. It comes second as a medium of instruction in any institution. It is the language of the government, and the preference for written communication, be it in school or business.

Taglish ("Tagalog-English") is effectively a mix n' matching English words and phrases with Tagalog and vice versa, and is part of everyday life of Manileños. It is frowned upon by the official education system but common in day-to-day life and on media, including movies and operas.

Spanish-speakers may recognize some words in Tagalog, since some of its vocabulary is Spanish-derived. In Binondo, Manila's Chinatown district, Hokkien is widely spoken by Chinese-Filipinos, although English and Filipino are most commonly spoken at home. Mandarin is often used for ceremonial or official purposes by the Chinese-Filipino community but not widely spoken; similarly to the way that Arabic is used by the Filipino-Muslim community.

Manila's economic growth has attracted people from provinces with a delusion that a better life can be attained in the city, these people had brought a diversity in Manila's culture from their hometowns with tongues that speak Ilocano from the Ilocos regions, Kapampangan from Pampanga, Bicolano from the Bicol Region, Hiligaynon from Western Visayas, Cebuano from Cebu and Waray from Leyte and Samar.

Get in

By air

Metro Manila is served by two airports: the nearby Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), and Clark International Airport in Pampanga.

Ninoy Aquino International Airport

Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 departure lounge

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) (MNL IATA), 8 km south of Manila in Pasay and Parañaque, is the main airport serving Metro Manila. The airport is divided into four terminals: Terminals 1, 2, 3 and 4 (previously known as the Domestic Terminal). Terminal 1, long regarded as one of Asia's worst airport terminals (if not the worst), is being renovated, and several areas of the terminal have been completed. The newer Terminals 2 and 3 are regarded as being far nicer than Terminal 1, with more amenities to boot.

A variety of public transportation options connect NAIA with Metro Manila.

  • Taxi: Yellow airport taxis have a stand at the arrival area of all terminals. The flagdown rate is ₱70, with an additional ₱4 surcharge for every 250 m. At Terminal 3, you can hail a white city taxi from the departure area: just take the escalator or elevator up to the departures hall and exit to the departure ramp. Coupon taxis are special taxis with fixed rates according to the destination: inquire at the information desk for rates.
  • Bus: One city bus route, Route 17 PITX-NAIA Loop, serves NAIA, running counter-clockwise from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) into Terminals 1, 2, 4, and 3, and back into PITX via EDSA, stopping at Taft Avenue and Mall of Asia. Terminal 3 is served by the Citylink bus (₱29), connecting it to Eastwood City in Quezon City via Circumferential Road 5 (C-5). In addition, UBE Express operates a premium bus service. Unlike the regular city buses, UBE Express actually enters the curbside of the terminal and serves the Makati central business district, the city of Manila (via Roxas Boulevard), and Entertainment City. It costs between ₱150-300 but it includes complimentary WiFi, GPS tracking, and more comfortable seats.
  • Train: The airport is served by two train stations: LRT Baclaran station near the Domestic Terminal, and PNR Nichols station near Terminal 3. Both stations however are 2-3 kilometers away from the airport proper. Jeeps which serve Terminal 3 and Villamor Airbase stop near Nichols station.
  • Jeepney: Jeepneys which serve Terminal 3 will have "NAIA Terminal 3" or something similar written on the side route panel. Jeepneys which serve Terminals 1 and 2 will have "MIA" written on the route panel.
  • Hotel transportation: Major hotel representatives are available on arrival and have chauffeur services which you can book on advance. The cost is around ₱750-950.

Clark International Airport

Clark Airport (CRK IATA) in Angeles City, Pampanga is 85 km north of Manila and is a popular hub for low-cost carriers. AirAsia, Cebu Pacific and SEAIR maintain hubs at Clark.

Some airlines which serve Clark have dedicated bus transfer services that transport passengers between Metro Manila and the airport via the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx). There are also four daily direct buses operated by Philtranco between Clark and its terminal in Pasay via SM Megamall in Mandaluyong, which costs ₱300 (to SM Megamall) or ₱350 (to Pasay). Jeepneys also connect the airport to bus terminals in Angeles, where it is possible to take a bus to Manila.

By boat

All ferries and most boats serving Metro Manila dock at the Port of Manila in Manila proper, which is divided into two halves: the North Harbor on the northern side of the Pasig River in Tondo, and the South Harbor on the southern side beside Ermita and Intramuros. 2GO Travel, the largest ferry operator out of the Port of Manila, operates out of the Eva Macapagal Super Terminal at Pier 15 in the South Harbor, though a few ferries operate from Pier 4 in the North Harbor, which was expanded with the construction of the newly-opened Manila North Port Passenger Terminal. Cruise ships docking in Manila will dock at either terminal, though most dock at the Super Terminal.

Some boat services do not dock at the Port of Manila: these include Sun Cruises ferries to Corregidor Island, which dock beside the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in Pasay, and boats to Cavite and Bataan, which dock at the SM Mall of Asia further south.

By car

Metro Manila is the center of the Philippine highway network; most roads lead to Manila, and signs in most major highways of Luzon often use Manila as a control city.

The Philippines' two major expressways: the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) and the South Luzon Expressway (SLEx), terminate in Manila. NLEX terminates at the Balintawak Interchange in Quezon City, while SLEx terminates at the Magallanes Interchange in Makati, with a further expressway-like segment continuing on as the Osmeña Highway between Magallanes and Quirino Avenue in Paco, Manila; the two are connected together by Skyway Stage 3, a six to seven-lane elevated highway passing through the edges of Manila city proper. A third expressway, the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEx, also Coastal Road) which connects Metro Manila and Cavite, terminates at the intersection with NAIA (or MIA) Road in Parañaque, and continues on as Roxas Boulevard.

Other major at-grade highways of the Philippines also terminate in Metro Manila. The MacArthur Hwy (Rte 1 and 2, also the Manila North Road) to northern Luzon, which for much of its length runs parallel to NLEx, terminates at Monumento in Caloocan, The Manila East Rd, connecting Metro Manila, Rizal and Laguna, terminates in Pasig. Asian Highway 26 passes through Manila, with two routes from NLEX Balintawak to SLEX Magallanes: the signed main route follows EDSA, and an unsigned alternate route via Radial Road 10 and Roxas Boulevard, and the Skyway.

While it does not reach Metro Manila, the Nautical Highway System (or RORO, after the roll-on, roll-off ferries used on the sea routes) connects with the highways to Manila.

By bus

Provincial buses to Metro Manila from other parts of the Philippines are cheap and efficient, and a common way to travel between cities in Luzon. It is also the center of the intercity bus network; a bus trip across Luzon will involve transiting through Manila.

With the government drive to decongest Manila's roads, company-owned terminals are being closed and provincial buses being rerouted to new central bus stations. As of 2022, there are four designated terminals, most with good connections to local transportation. There are also other major bus terminals like Park N' Ride Lawton and South Station, but they have been relegated to local buses, jeepneys and vans.

  • 1 Araneta City Busport, Cubao, Quezon City (Take city bus routes 8, 9 and 10. Jeepney routes 203 and 204 terminate here. If taking EDSA Carousel (route E) or MRT Line 3, alight at Araneta Center-Cubao.). Opened 2017, this air-conditioned bus station siphoned some routes that used to end along EDSA in Cubao. As of 2022, it serves as a terminal for commuter buses from Central Luzon and some interisland services from Visayas and Mindanao. It has a food court, ticketing booths, departure boards, and secure passenger waiting areas. True to its name, it functions like an airport, and passengers board through gates which leads to their bus. Araneta City Bus Port (Q85742591) on Wikidata Araneta City Bus Port on Wikipedia (updated Oct 2020)
  • North Luzon Express Terminal (NLET), Bocaue, Bulacan (Take city bus route 20.). Partially opened in 2020, it was intended to be a temporary diversion terminal for buses from northern Luzon as the Luzon lockdown began, but it has been made the terminal for all bus services to Ilocos, the Cordilleras and Cagayan Valley. As of July 2020, it is also served by select services to cities in Central Luzon. It is part of the Ciudad de Victoria development along North Luzon Expressway. (updated Oct 2020)
  • 2 Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), Parañaque (Multiple city bus and jeepney routes terminate here. Future connection with LRT Line 1 at Asia World.). Opened November 2018, it serves buses with destinations in CALABARZON and Bicol. This is a multistory structure with multiple amenities, such as air-conditioned waiting rooms, food court, taxi stand, and an interfaith prayer room. Bus departures are shown on screens, and tickets are purchased at the terminal, even for commuter services to Cavite and Batangas. Like the Bus Port, passengers also board on gates, and the waiting area is secured. Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (Q58811494) on Wikidata Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange on Wikipedia (updated Oct 2020)
  • Alabang Integrated Bus Terminal, Alabang, Muntinlupa (At Starmall Alabang. Take city buses 10, 15 and 23). Terminal for some services from Visayas and Mindanao from August 2022. One of the original dedicated terminals for provincial buses, it used to serve several commuter bus routes to destinations in southern Luzon and long-haul services to Bicol used to terminate here until the COVID-19 pandemic; it was since relegated to local buses and jeepneys until 2022. (updated Nov 2022)

Aside from provincial buses, there are also luxury express buses from other cities in Luzon, the majority terminating at PITX or NLET; some of those are NLET-San Fernando (La Union) (on Metro Manila North Transport), PITX-Baguio City (on Pangasinan Solid North), PITX-Batangas City (on RRCG), and PITX-Lipa (on ALPS). There are also routes from other cities to the central business districts at Makati, Bonifacio Global City and Ortigas Center, and between NAIA and Sangley Point Airport or Clark.

By rail

As of 2023, there is no rail service from outside Metro Manila, with Philippine National Railways (PNR) Metro South Commuter service from Laguna discontinued.

Rail service from the north will be restored with the opening of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) connecting with Malolos, with a further extension to Clark Airport. As of 2022, part of it is nearly complete, with partial operation between Malolos and Valenzuela to begin by 2023. The Metro South Commuter would be replaced by a NSCR extension to Calamba from around 2025; some trains from Calamba will continue to the future Metro Manila Subway allowing for a seamless trip to the CBDs in Taguig, Pasig and Quezon City.

As of 2021, PNR does not operate intercity trains since they were suspended from 2015. These will be restored with the rebuilding of the South Main Line to Bicol, but trains will terminate at a new station in Muntinlupa; onward, you will have to transfer to the NSCR or local bus. Regional service from Batangas and Quezon provinces is also planned, also terminating at Muntinlupa and using parts of the rebuilt South Main Line.

Get around

Public transportation is the best way to get around Metro Manila. If looking for route options, you can look at Google Maps or Sakay.ph, but Google Maps generally do not have schedules for jeepneys. Driving is not for the faint of heart.

Beep card

A Beep card

Beep is a prepaid smart card used to pay fares for public transport, the LRT, MRT, and some buses; it replaced the incompatible magnetic stored value cards used on the LRT and MRT. Consider buying a Beep card if planning to use public transport extensively for long-term stays. Using the card is straightforward, and works the same way as similar cards in other major cities.

Although primarily used on the LRT and MRT, it is possible to use Beep cards to pay fares on:

  • The BGC Bus system in Taguig
  • Both regular and point-to-point city buses
  • Some modern jeepney routes with vehicles fitted with card readers.

You can also use a Beep card to pay for goods at 7-Eleven, Uncle John's, FamilyMart, and Circle K stores in most parts of Metro Manila, and pay tolls on the North Luzon and Manila–Cavite expressways, avoiding the hassle of bringing bills or coins for payment. Beep is also accepted at Binalot restaurants and Robinsons MovieWorld cinemas.

Beep cards are available for purchase at LRT and MRT stations, as well as at convenience stores and bus terminals around Metro Manila. A card can hold a maximum amount of ₱10000, and can be topped up ("loaded") at LRT and MRT stations, FamilyMart stores, Bayad Centers, SM Bills Pay locations, and at some major pawnshop chains. The card's balance is displayed once tapped against a reader.

By train

The backbone of Metro Manila's public transportation system is in its train network, with service being provided by two separate systems: a three-line rapid transit system and a commuter rail service operated by the Philippine National Railways (PNR).

Rapid transit

Manila's train system

Metro Manila's three metro lines are arguably the fastest way to get around the city, capable of zipping through the city's perennially congested streets. The Light Rail Transit (LRT), owned by the state-owned Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), with its Line 1 operated by the private company Light Rail Manila Corporation, is notable for being the first rapid transit system in Southeast Asia, connects Manila with its neighboring cities, while the Metro Rail Transit[dead link] (MRT), operated by the national transportation department, operates along Metro Manila's busiest transit corridor.

  • LRT Line 1 (LRT-1, colored green in maps), serves Manila, Caloocan, Pasay and Quezon City, zipping above Taft and Rizal avenues, and EDSA, in a general north-south direction. This line is particularly useful for reaching key tourist areas, including Malate, Ermita, Intramuros, Binondo and Quiapo.
  • LRT Line 2 (LRT-2, colored blue in maps), serves Manila, Quezon City, Marikina and San Juan, going over Recto Avenue, Magsaysay Boulevard, Aurora Boulevard and the Marikina–Infanta Highway in a general east-west direction. Although this line serves very few areas important to tourists, it does serve Quiapo and Cubao.
  • MRT Line 3 (MRT-3, colored yellow in maps), serves Pasay, Quezon City, San Juan, Makati and Mandaluyong, running along the median of EDSA in a rough semi-circle. Notably, this is the only line that does not serve Manila proper. This line broadly serves the four major commercial areas of Metro Manila: Cubao, Ortigas Center, the Makati Central Business District and the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, as well as Quezon City's Triangle and Scout Areas.

Trains start running at around 5:30AM, while the last trains stop just after 11PM.

A Line 2 train towards Araneta Center - Cubao station

Trains can get very crowded during rush hour, and while the journey itself can be fast, expect to wait a long time before riding. Like other overpopulated cities in Asia, you should be prepared to be surrounded by other people. Expect long queues at the entrance as security personnel will check to see if bags are loaded with prohibited items, and while trains are air-conditioned, the sheer number of people riding at any one time can mean long, hot rides during rush hour. Be mindful of your personal belongings as pickpockets are not uncommon, and if you have a backpack, put it in front or on your feet to reduce the space you take up. Women (including those that are pregnant or with children), students, disabled persons, and the elderly must be given priority in seating. All three lines also have women-only sections where you, if you are male, must watch out for.

Fares for the trains start ₱15, and increase in increments of ₱1-3 depending on the distance. Entering the system requires either a Beep card or a single-journey card, which can be purchased either from manned kiosks or ticket machines and are collected at the end of the journey. There are no free transfers between the three lines, and each transfer will count as two separate fares.

A newer line, the MRT Line 7 between North EDSA in Quezon City and San Jose del Monte will open in 2022, but will generally be of interest only between North EDSA, Diliman and Novaliches. The Philippines's first subway, the Metro Manila Subway is under construction, and will pass around the major CBDs of North Triangle and Cubao in Quezon City, Ortigas Center in Pasig, and BGC and the future Arca South in Taguig; it is planned to connect with the future NSCR in Taguig. Another subway is under construction within Makati; it will have a transfer with the Metro Manila Subway but it would be otherwise self-contained.

Commuter rail

A PNR commuter train at FTI station

In addition to the LRT and MRT, the Philippine National Railways (PNR) also operates the Metro Commuter rail service between Metro Manila and the neighboring province of Laguna. Although the PNR only operates two lines (the aptly-named North and South Main Lines) from its main hub at Tutuban in Tondo, it operates four different train services:

  • The Metro South Commuter runs only along the South Main Line and parts of the North Main Line, connecting Manila to its northern and southern suburbs. Sixteen South Commuter trains run per day, serving Manila, Makati, Muntinlupa, Parañaque and Taguig, a few running as far as Los Baños in Laguna. Notably, the South Commuter provides the closest service to NAIA, and is the only rail service operating in Manila's University Belt.
  • The Metro North Commuter runs along both the North and South Main Lines, connecting the northern suburbs from the Governor Pascual station in Malabon to the rest of Metro Manila. Four North Commuter trains a day run between Malabon and Tutuban through Caloocan, while two bypass Tutuban to connect Malabon and Taguig using the North and South Main Lines, complementing existing South Commuter service.

Connections to the LRT and MRT are available at Blumentritt (for LRT-1), Santa Mesa (for LRT-2) and EDSA (for the MRT).

Unlike the LRT and MRT, the PNR runs diesel-powered trains. While no better than the aforementioned systems, PNR trains are all air-conditioned, with older second-hand rolling stock from Japan being replaced by brand-new all-AC stock from Indonesia. Schedules are also shorter, with the first trains just before 5AM, and the last trains stopping at 7:30PM, with a service frequency of 30-60 minutes. Fares start at ₱15, and go up in ₱5 increments depending on the distance, with the maximum fare (from Tutuban to Calamba) being ₱60. Beep cards are not valid on the PNR, and payment for fares is cash-only.

That said, riding the PNR is not for the faint-of-heart. Decades of deferred maintenance and neglect have led to poorly-maintained trains that are the subject of frequent delays and cancelations, which would make the MRT Line 3 look orderly by comparison. Inclement weather can cause significant delays, especially during the rainy season. As the system is not grade-separated, vehicular accidents are common, despite trains having the right of way. Congestion can be worse than on the LRT and MRT, not helped by the fact that for many people in southern Metro Manila, this is the fastest means of getting to and from work. Should you decide to take a ride on the PNR, many of the same precautions you should take while riding the LRT and MRT should also be observed here.

The existing Metro Commuter will be replaced by the ultramodern and electrified NSCR as discussed in #Get in, but as of 2021, only sections of it between Valenzuela in Northern Metro Manila and Malolos in Bulacan will be completed and opened by 2022 and the Metro Commuter will still be operating until the completion of the rest of the system. The NSCR's southern leg between Manila and Calamba will connect with the Metro Manila Subway, allowing for a one-seat ride between Laguna and southern Metro Manila, and BGC, Ortigas and Quezon City.

By bus

Map of the Metro Manila city bus network as of 2020

City buses operated by a multitude of private franchised operators provide a cheap but slower way of exploring the metro.

Bus lines in Metro Manila are mostly run by high-floor air-conditioned coaches, as well as non-AC versions with an exit door, but to improve safety and better serve people with disabilities, brand-new ultramodern low-floor buses are being phased in, and the non-AC "ordinary" buses are slowly being removed from service or retrofitted with AC. Routes are numbered and color-coded, and the primary destinations should be easily found in the front and the sides of the bus.

The city bus network is centered on three major hubs, PITX (in Parañaque), One Ayala (in Makati), and Monumento (in Caloocan), but there are many routes that bypass those. Some routes, particularly those serving the suburbs, ply the expressway for part of the route, and five routes also supplement the LRT and MRT. All routes operate daily, 24/7 and frequency is high; usually, the next bus arrives within 5 minutes or even within a minute or two in the busiest routes.

Instead of riding regular city buses, you can also take luxurious express buses, branded Premium Point-to-Point Bus Service or simply P2P. These new routes provide limited or no-stop services between malls, central business districts, and major transit hubs, and are priced higher than regular buses. Schedules and terminals can be found at the official P2P Bus website.

Fares are normally paid in cash and you get tickets from the conductor, but it is possible to pay with Beep or another smart card such as TripKo, which you can purchase from bus stations. Food and drinks are generally allowed as long they aren't smelly or messy; except in the big bus stations, expect peddlers who will hop onto your bus at a major stop. There is little to no space for luggage, however.

Bus rapid transit

The Busway in Caloocan

Metro Manila also hosts the Philippines first bus rapid transit (BRT) line, the EDSA Busway, utilized by the EDSA Carousel (line 1), one of the new bus routes operating since 2020. The Busway, served by low-floor buses and a part of a future BRT network, runs from PITX to Monumento using the innermost lanes of Metro Manila’s busiest highway, EDSA, and complements the MRT-3. Boarding is through bus stops placed at the highway’s median island. As of January 2023, the line collects fares; you can either pay in cash or with Beep.

By taxi

Taxis are very affordable by western standards but pretty expensive for locals and almost all are now air-conditioned and use a meter to compute for the final fare. The taxi rates start at ₱40 as the flagdown rate plus ₱13.50 for every kilometre and ₱2 per each minute of travel (whether the vehicle is stuck in traffic or moving, as of Nov 2022). This means that travelling a certain route under heavier traffic conditions will cost you more than travelling the same route under lighter traffic.

Some drivers may take advantage of tourists, but closer regulation by authorities and even by mall operators, as well as the competition with Grab, are curbing this practice slowly. Many taxis are in a poor state of repair and drivers drive erratically. There is a hotline to report bad taxi drivers. Take note of the cab name and number. Mall operators also closely monitor the operations of taxis that use their taxi racks by ensuring that cab drivers do not choose only passengers bound for nearby destinations. Do not hire taxis waiting at bus terminals; they will charge you double the usual fare in the hope that confused tourists will accept it. Just walk out from any main bus terminal, and you will find plenty of cabs.

During rush hour, drivers will ask for a minimum fare higher than what the meter requires you to pay, and drivers will hesitate to drive you if your destination involves EDSA or a CBD; it is extremely difficult to hail a cab during these hours. During the early morning, passengers are strongly advised to bring smaller denominations of bills (and coins) or pay with credit card using Grab (see e-hailing section) as drivers usually don't have change.

By ride-hail

The ride-hail app Grab is ubiquitous in Metro Manila, and basically the only choice after Uber pulled back from Southeast Asia in 2018. Basically you can use Grab to order a "GrabCar" (with fixed fare) or a regular taxi with metered fare (plus ₱79 for booking a cab through the Grab app, as of Nov 2022); for the latter, you can check the most likely range of fares beforehand to evaluate which is the most economical option. Many hotels will just use the Grab app when you request a taxi in the reception.

There are also motorcycle ride-hail apps, such as Angkas or JoyRide, which are popular among locals because they can easily maneuver through the congested streets of the city. However, be prepared to be exposed to the elements. In case of rain, the rider will provide a poncho for you to use.

A data plan or Wi-Fi is required to use ride-hail apps, but Manila's airport and many shopping malls have kiosks where you can order a ride without an internet connection.

By jeepney

Jeepneys in Manila

In addition to buses, jeepneys are widely available. Despite having a reputation for being crowded and inefficient, they serve the nooks and crannies of Metro Manila that regular city buses cannot.

Once inside, pay your fare directly to the driver by telling him where you want to get off and how many people you are paying for. If you are seated far from the driver, say bayad [po] while extending the hand with your fare to the driver and someone will readily take your fare and pass it until it gets to the driver. Giving back of change or (sukli) if the fare given is in a large denomination will come in a similar manner, and a polite expression of "thank you" or salamat [po] as a sign of gratitude is encouraged.

The fare structure begins with a minimum fare for the first four kilometers and increases every additional kilometer thereafter. Minimum fare is ₱9 and the rates goes higher depending on your destination to ₱15 (as of Jan 2019). Do not expect that a driver will be able to give change for large denominations, e.g. ₱500 or ₱1000.

You can also request the driver to inform you that you are near to your destination. Jeepney stops exist, but they can drop you anywhere as long it is safe and is not prohibited by signs. Say para [po] or clink coins at the grab rail to signal to the drive you need to get off.

Jeepneys are designed to carry small people - and can get very cramped for anyone over 6 ft (1.8 m) tall particularly if the jeepney is fully loaded! This arrangement is cramped even for the size of the locals who are small by Western comparison and some would regularly complain. Though not widely practiced, some people would pay for the price of two to avoid getting cramped by someone else as the fares are anyway extremely cheap. Jeepneys usually seat anywhere from 0 to 30 people.

Modern jeepneys, which take the form of minibuses, have higher headroom and standing space, far more convenient than the traditional vehicles. Some modern jeepneys do retain the design of the ubiquitous vehicles, but with air conditioning and a front side door, resembling a bus. You can use a smart card such as Beep to pay for modern jeepney rides, but you can still pay with cash and coins.

By van

UV Express van in Cubao

UV Express (formerly called GT Express or FX) is a passenger van shuttle service, with fares more expensive than buses, but cheaper than taxis and jeepneys. Like jeepneys, they run fixed routes between terminals, but with pick-up and drop-off limited to a kilometer from their terminal. They can carry up to 10 passengers, but is hardly useful if you are carrying luggage, where a taxi is more comfortable. Also beware of unlicensed and unmarked passenger vans that tend to congregate around informal terminals at malls, as they compete illegally with legitimate vans as well as buses and jeepneys and can be unsafe; they might charge you twice in the fare.

By tricycle

Tricycles (motorcycles with modified side cars) These are common for short trips in areas where jeepneys do not travel. In Manila proper you are unlikely to see any. However, in outlying suburbs and towns they are more common. Other variants are the pedicab, which is merely a bicycle with a side car, and the kuliglig, which is a pedicab equipped with an outboard motor (though the latter has almost been phased out due to noise concerns). Electric trikes or CNG-powered Bajaj tuk-tuks can be sighted in parts of the metro.

On foot

Like most large Southeast Asian cities, Manila is definitely not a city made for pedestrians. Street sides are often infested with vendors and peddlers, dirty or smelly, sidewalks may be obstructed by merchandise, utility poles and other hindrances, and crossing the street requires double attention even when pedestrian lights are green. Yet, as in most cities in the world, walking can still be the best way of getting close to the local daily life, as long as you take precautions about traffic and safety.

Jaywalking is illegal in most places, with a penalty of a ₱500 fine or community service, but it remains quite common in the poorer cities. Enforcement of this law also varies from city to city.

Surprisingly, Manila has a few very pedestrian friendly-areas, such as Bonifacio Global City in Taguig and the Ayala Center in Makati, with ample pedestrian walkways, shelter and traffic rules that seem to work. In particular, the Bonifacio High Street in Taguig is a lively and charming pedestrian street with plenty of shops, gardens, alfresco bars and restaurants, and open-air contemporary art that definitely deserve a stroll on both day and night.

By car

Traffic jam in EDSA.

The metropolis has an extensive system of highways connecting the various cities and municipalities. Most of the major thoroughfares are numbered with one or three digits on white shield signs. Smaller arterial roads, generally called "secondary roads" usually are not numbered. Key routes infamously congested EDSA (which carries Asian Highway 26 and Route 1 across the region), C-5 Road (Carlos P. Garcia Avenue, Route 11), Roxas Boulevard (Routes 120 and 61) and Route 170 (which includes Taft Avenue, España Boulevard, and Quezon and Commonwealth Avenues.)

However, driving in a private car is not recommended for people who are unfamiliar with Manila because many drivers there ignore traffic rules. Parking tends to be scarce, and can be expensive in downtowns and CBDs. Public transit is very cheap, but it gets crowded during the morning and afternoon rush hours (7AM to 10AM and 4PM to 7PM). Traffic also tends to crawl during these times so best avoid being on the move in these occasions. Just like any city in Southeast Asia, drivers in Manila tend to be reckless, but road signs are very common, though some are not that visible, and are also well abided and respected by at least 75% of Manila drivers.

Traffic congestion is a major problem, as worse as those in São Paulo and Jakarta. If driving on your own, you may stick on finding alternate routes, especially the Mabuhay Lanes, but, as with the rest of Metro Manila, expect traffic congestion, obstructions and construction on those routes. EDSA (from Caloocan to Pasay via Quezon City), C-5 (Taguig to Valenzuela via Quezon City), Alabang-Zapote Road (between Las Piñas and Muntinlupa), and Dr. A. Santos Avenue (Sucat Road) and Ninoy Aquino Avenue (all in Parañaque) are all notorious for congestion, usually rush hour traffic (see above); better take alternate routes if possible, but if your destination is found along those roads, please expect hours for traffic to move smoothly. Cities with many gated communities, like the suburban cities of Las Piñas and Parañaque, tend to have traffic jams as worse as EDSA's, and unless your vehicle have a sticker issued by the homeowners' association or local government (which you can only get if you have a residence or frequently visit a location inside the subdivision[s] covered), there is no choice but to drive through the already clogged roads.

Traffic enforcement across the region is handled by the national police, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and local traffic police forces. Speed cameras are uncommon, but there are traffic monitoring cameras at most signal-controlled intersections. Corruption remains common, often involving local traffic cops.

When driving, watch out for jaywalkers. Be also aware when driving in narrow streets, where children usually play, given Manila is a crowded metropolis. Be also aware of the regionwide road space rationing ("number coding") scheme, where some vehicles are not allowed to ply Metro Manila streets from 7AM to 10AM, and from 3PM to 7PM, Mondays to Fridays, i.e. cars with license plates ending in numbers 1 and 2 should not go out of the street on the said schedule every Mondays, 3 and 4 every Tuesdays, and so on and so forth. Makati however observes the scheme throughout the day.

Dedicated left turn lanes are rare, the left lane can turn into turning lanes with little warning, and left turns are rare than rights in some cities. Some major thoroughfares, like EDSA and Commonwealth Avenue, have left turns provided by U-turn slots instead of a direct turn through the intersection. In EDSA and Commonwealth Avenue, dedicated public utility vehicle and motorcycle lanes are implemented, and are monitored remotely through CCTVs.

Gas prices are relatively comparable to those in the U.S. (except prices are by the liter) but expensive in the eyes of locals. Fuel prices fluctuate on a weekly basis.

By ferry

A passenger ferry service operates between cities along Pasig River.

See

City walks

Manila might not generally be a place to take a leisurely stroll, but it has interesting neighbourhoods that definitely deserve to be explored on foot:

  • Intramuros, the Spanish-built walled city that is the historical center of Manila. Largely destroyed during the World War II, it is not a charming colonial city center in the likes of Vigan, but a fascinating place where memories of the past and the realities of the present mix;
  • Binondo is Manila's bustling Chinatown with an unmatched festival of colours, tastes, and smells;
  • Makati's Poblacion is the historical core of Makati, containing both Metro Manila's Koreatown and hipster areas popular among backpackers;
  • Makati's Ayala Center is a large cluster of shopping malls in Metro Manila's most important business district, which is itself an eye candy for skyscraper afficionados;
  • Bonifacio Global City is an ultramodern business, commercial and affluent residential district in the likes of Singapore, and likely the most pedestrian-friendly area of Metro Manila.

Plazas, Parks and Nature Reserves

Rizal Park

When it comes to parks, Luneta Park and Intramuros are the most popular destinations. Luneta Park (also called as Rizal Park and Rizal Monument) is home to the Rizal monument; a statue of the Philippines' national hero, Jose Rizal. It is one of the most significant and most important places in Philippine history from the Spanish colonial era to the EDSA revolution. The walled former city of Intramuros served as a settlement for the Indianized-Malay-Muslims, then it was taken over by the Spanish and fell into ruins during the World War II, it is one of the most popular icons of the Philippines. See Plaza de Roma in Intramuros where a statue of King Carlos IV of Spain stands, Plaza de Goiti or now known as Plaza Lacson is where a statue of Arsenio Lacson; said to be one of Manila's greatest mayor stands, next to it is Roman Santos building which would again make you think you're somewhere in Rome, Italy because of it Greco-Roman architecture. Plaza Miranda stands infront of Quiapo Church in the Filipino-Muslim district of Quiapo, an unfortunate event occurred here on 1971; the Plaza Miranda bombings. Manila Zoological and Botanical Gardens is one of the oldest zoos in Asia. It is criticized for its inadequate care towards animals and its dirty surroundings and animal rights activists are demanding to free the animals due to this while Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center have rare animals such as water monitors and the Philippine deer, it also treats injured animals even if it isn't part of their zoo. La Mesa Dam EcoPark is the haven for most Filipinos after a tiring week of work and a getaway from the noisy and polluted metro, not only is it an ecopark but is also a dam which provides water to Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Manila Ocean Park is larger than Singapore's Sentosa Underwater World, construction is incomplete however it had already opened to the public, tickets cost ₱350 for a child, ₱400 for adults. Quezon Memorial Circle is a shrine and a national park, it is where the remains of late President Manuel Quezon and his wife are rested. While Greenbelt Park is in Makati and is worth seeing.

Places of worship

Manila Cathedral

Religion is one of the major aspects of life of a Filipino, the diverse population of the Philippines follows the world's major religions; Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and some following the Jewish faith and part of the Church of the Latter Day Saints, some forms of paganism, animism or any other kind may somehow exist. Manila's population follows almost all of those religions.

Christian faith

EDSA Shrine

See Basilica Minore de la Immaculada Concepcion or Manila Cathedral in simple words in Intramuros, it is a historic church which served 2 funerals for 2 Filipino presidents and for bishops' funerals. Basilica Minore de San Lorenzo Ruiz or Binondo Church in Chinatown caters to Chinese Filipinos, seen here is the synchronization of Western architecture, Catholic faith and Chinese influences. Our Lady of China chapel is in this church. See the miraculous Black Nazerene or Itim na Nazareno in Basilica Minore de Jesus Nazareno or Quiapo church which is believed to give miracles and blessings. During January it is crowded as are the streets of Metro Manila, as a procession is held, during Fridays the church is filled with devotees.

  • San Sebastian Basilica Minore de Mount Carmel
  • Epifanio de los Santos Shrine

Churches and sanctuaries

  • San Agustín Church. 
  • Redemptorist Church (Baclaran Church). 
  • Remedios Church (Malate Church). 
  • Santuario de San Antonio

Other faiths

The Golden Mosque is in the Quiapo district which is somehow the Filipino-Muslim district of Manila, its dome is made of gold and is built in order of the Marcoses.

Museums

  • The National Museum of the Filipino People
  • Metropolitan Museum
  • Filipinas Heritage Library
  • Ateneo Art Gallery
  • Ayala Museum
  • Lopez Museum
  • The Museum at De La Salle University-Manila
  • Museum of Contemporary Art and Design at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde

Cemeteries

While some might consider creepy to visit cemeteries as a tourist, some of Manila's cemeteries easily stand among the cities' most impressive sights. The most famous are the Manila Chinese Cemetery in Santa Cruz, a real "city of the dead" with intricate and ornamented mausoleums, and the sombre Manila American Cemetery and Memorial and Heroes' Cemetery in Taguig dedicated respectively to the American and Filipino soldiers who died in the Philippines during the World War II. The Manila North Cemetery in Santa Cruz, a bizarre but fascinating "slum-cemetery", is not a place for independent sightseeing but can be visited via a guided tour.

Manila Chinese Cemetery

Monuments

  • Monumento de la Revolucion
  • Rizal Monument
  • People Power Monument
  • Quezon Monument
  • Bonifacio Monument

Do

Festivals

You can find almost all major festivals in Metro Manila. There are two New Years. The Gregorian New Year every January, is characterized by noise and merrymaking; the crackles and bursts of firecrackers and fireworks complete the Filipino New Year, believing it will scare misfortunes away, but can be dangerous and messy, with the day after characterized by scattered debris, used fireworks barrages and unexploded firecrackers, smoke, trash, and the most dreaded result, injured celebrators, victims of their firecrackers, and fires. Then, there's the Chinese New Year, at various dates between January and February, with the firecrackers and the Dragon Dance; Filipino Chinese offer money inside ampaw (red envelopes) and eat sticky but tasty tikoy.

The Traslación

There are many religious festivities held annually. The Feast of the Black Nazarene in Manila every January draws millions into Manila, where devotees flock to touch the wooden statue. The festivities begins with the tradition of pahalik, where devotees kiss and rub their towels onto the image, and the actual procession, Traslación every January 9, is a very crowded situation, where personal space is almost unimportant, as people climb into and pull the carriage (andas) from the Quirino Grandstand, through parts of Manila, and back into Quiapo Church. Another major festival is the Watah Watah Festival, part of the Feast of St. John the Baptist (San Juan Bautista) in San Juan, characterized by dances, and most notably, water fights at the streets, reminding you of Songkran in Thailand or Holi in India, so be warned, it's not a spectator sport for the ordinary tourist, especially if you look obviously foreign.

Cinemas

Metro Manila has good cinemas, with the average ticket price at about ₱200, a bargain to Western standards but slightly steep to the average Filipino. Most cinemas are rather part of mall chains, and gone are the glory days of downtown movie houses. Old-style cinemas found at the heart of cities are now rare to find, but most have become seedy locations that show illicit X-rated, hardcore porn films. Modern Philippine cinemas are up to the modern standards, and expect wearing 3D glasses on some Hollywood films. IMAX cinema can be found at malls at various points in the metro.

Gambling

Metro Manila is one of Asia's largest gambling hubs, containing no less than twenty casinos. Some of them have true Las Vegas or Macau standard, being not only casinos but also integrated resorts, entertainment venues and luxury shopping malls. These are mostly in the Entertainment City district of Parañaque, including the Solaire, the City of Dreams, the Okada and the future Westside City, whereas the Resorts World Manila is in the Newport area of Pasay.

Horse racing is no longer hosted at tracks in Metro Manila. The two major racetracks, the Santa Ana Racecourse in Makati and San Lazaro Leisure Park in Manila are converted into malls and commercial property (SM City San Lazaro and The Circuit Makati respectively), and are moved to Carmona and Naic in Cavite, respectively.

Sports

Metro Manila has a lackluster sports scene compared with other large Southeast Asian metropolises, but it is the center of Philippine sports. Large sports arenas do exist, like Araneta Coliseum, Mall of Asia Arena, PhilSports Arena, and San Juan Area (Filoil Flying V Arena), but the number did not catch up with the increasing population. Unregulated urbanization are also suspect, so spaces better suited for sports activities instead gave way to large mall complexes lacking any space for sports activities. That said, there is a vibrant sports scene, centered on the Philippines's favorite sport, basketball.

Buy

See also: Shopping in the Philippines

There are generally two kinds of shopping destinations in Manila: the mall and the tiangge ("chang-ghe").

Shopping malls

The Manila mall is more than just a shopping experience but a cultural destination as well. The largest malls in Metro Manila are practically their own cities within the city: complete with boutiques, supermarkets, department stores, restaurants, cinemas, medical facilities, hotels, schools, offices, gyms, serviced apartments, spas, convention centers, art galleries, bowling alleys, museums, ice skating rinks, and even a chapel for Sunday masses.

SM Mall of Asia in Pasay is the largest mall in the Philippines and 5th largest mall in the world. The second largest mall in Metro Manila is SM North EDSA in Quezon City, followed by the SM Megamall in Mandaluyong. The Ayala Center in Makati is not a single mall, but a cluster of four large shopping malls which combined might offer more shopping options than the aforementioned super-malls.

While the typical image of shopping malls are of bland concrete boxes, many malls in Manila use innovative architecture and concepts including large open spaces, contemporary art exhibitions, and popular markets. In particular, the Bonifacio High Street in Taguig is a real "shopping mall turned into a pedestrian street", the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay contains a bustling amusement park facing the Manila Bay, Festival Alabang in Muntinlupa contains a park with a river, and the Venice Grand Canal in Taguig is, well... a replica of Venice.

Eastwood City, McKinley Hill and Newport Mall are also some of the well-known malls by Megaworld Lifestyle Malls that are located in different parts of the Metro Manila. People usually go there because of their distinct architectural designs and concepts.

Tiangge

Tiendesitas

However, if you wish to experience the "ultimate Manila shopping experience", one has to shop at a tiangge. Tiangges are small makeshift stalls clustered together that sell anything and everything you can imagine think bazaars). But at bargain basement prices. In these places, one has to haggle, particularly if you are buying wholesale (defined as at least six pieces of the same item). The best tiangge complexes are in the Greenhills Shopping Center, Tiendesitas, Market! Market!, St. Francis Square, Tutuban Center Mall, Divisoria Mall, and 168 Mall. Go crazy buying quality clothes and shoes, pretty fashion jewelry and things for the house at very reasonable prices!

Eat

The Food Village at Tiendesitas

A tourist or visitor may be amused or perplexed to see Filipinos eating most of the time. Apart from the three major meals of the day, there are snacks in the morning and in the afternoon called merienda which are an integral part of a typical Pinoy's everyday life. Metro Manila's diverse racial community had brought the rise to international cuisine, from just one corner of the street a Filipino would be eating Shawarma (more commonly known as Doner or Kebab for some westerners), another one would be enjoying his kimchee, while others would enjoy their night with sushi, some would desire Indian and Thai curry for their lunch while some would prefer the typical American breakfast in fastfood stores. For Chinese cuisine go to Chinatown where they serve Hokkien dishes; American steakhouses, high class Japanese, Korean, Indian and Thai restaurants that lurk around Makati, Koreantown have cheaper options as does Japantown (Little Tokyo). Usually if you prefer to splurge, Makati is one of the best options. Typical Filipino cuisine and streetfood are found in the streets of Manila which provide the best options, the cost could be US$1-2 per serving or even lower.

Filipino fastfood

America's influence is palpable in the Philippines, and you'll be hard pressed to find a mall without the requisite McDonalds and KFC. Filipino fastfood chains that capture the essence of Filipino food compete strongly for Philippine tastebuds however, and they may be a safe place for the tourist to try the local fare. The following are a list of fastfood chains that have branches all around the Metro, and in many cases around the country.

  • Jollibee. The most well-known Filipino fastfood chain of all, Jollibee can boast of over a thousand stores in the Philippines and more than 300 stores around the world. Typical fastfood fare for the most part, but the burger dressing will taste different (read: sweet) to most foreigners. For something a little different, try the pancit palabok, which is a vermicelli dish with an orange sauce. US$1-2 per serving. 
  • Greenwich Pizza. The second of Jollibee corps' trifecta of fastfood chains, Greenwich Pizzas are your typical fare, but once again with the slightly sweeter than usual tomato sauce. Some seasonal offerings may be on offer though, like the sisig pizza, so check the menu. US$2-3 per serving. 
  • Chowking. The Filipino version of Chinese food, also owned by Jollibee. For good sampling of their food, try the Lauriats, which feature a viand (beef, pork, chicken), rice, pancit (fried noodles with meat and veggies), siomai (dumplings), and buchi (a sweet rice ball covered with a sesame-based coating. US$2-3 per serving. 
  • Tapa King. Tapaking is where you get the ubiquitous tapsilog (fried beef strips, fried garlic rice, and egg), which is popular breakfast fare, along with other local delicacies. US$2-3 per serving. 
  • GotoKing. This is a fast-growing chain where you go to get the localized version of congee called goto and lugaw (rice porridge), with different kinds of toppings like chicken, roasted garlic, egg, etc. 
  • Mang Inasal. A relative newcomer, Mang Inasal brings a variety of barbecue called "inasal" into Metro Manila from the smaller city of Bacolod (further south in the Visayan region). They offer other grilled meats, and soups like sinigang (a sour, tamarind based soup). US$1-2 per serving. (updated Mar 2017)
  • Goldilocks. The place to go for your baked treats and sweets like mamon (a spongy round cake), polvoron (a tighly packed powdery treat) ensaymada (bread baked with cheese and sugar), and host of other delicacies for those with a sweet tooth. A must try savory treat is their fresh lumpiang sariwa (light and fresh spring roll with peanut sauce). 

Where to eat

  • Greenbelt Lifestyle Center - the widest selection of food choices, which also happen to be the trendiest and most unique, can be found in the Greenbelt Area at heart of Ayala Center in Makati City. With everything upscale, you can find yourself munching tapas with a glass of sangria or having a gastronomic delight of french treats.
  • Tomas Morato - Before midnight strikes, the strip is becoming increasily famous among locals for comedy bars. However, restaurants with gastronomic delights of every kind or dish abound from end-to-end.
  • The Promenade at Greenhills
  • Baywalk - This used to be the most famous location for an abundance of affordable, delightful street food, by the bay. However, it has been closed by the city government for certain issues. Nevertheless, a visit to this area provides a different perspective of the old city of Manila.
  • Eastwood City - Peppered with a lot of choices that offer comfortable dining in airconditioned or al fresco style, this place appeals to the upbeat, on-the-rise professionals and more affluent members of the Filipino society. There are lots of things to enjoy from good food, music, to midnight movies and shopping. Very appropriate for the night owls and nearby universitarians.
  • The Fort Strip and Serendra in Global City, Taguig - Trendy, classy, isolated yet warm, surprising and fulfilling. From Makati City, it is easy to reach the newest dining and entertainment hub in the Metropolis by private car or cab.
  • Tiendesitas - literally "little stores", This place seems to have been primarily built with returning Filipinos in mind and for foreigners interested in some kind of cultural immersion. It is a confluence of some 450 traders from the three major islands of the Philippines, namely Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, selling specialty merchandise. So much to choose from but the food pavilions are the busiest.

Drink

The epicenter of Metro Manila's famous nightlife is the Greenbelt in Makati where some of the city's best restaurants, cafes, bars and karaoke joints cluster around a park in the middle of the main business district. The Fort, Serendra and Bonifacio High Street are three different clusters that offers high-end restaurants, bars and shops in the nearby city of Taguig. Bohemian Malate and the adjoining Baywalk contain a variety of venues serving a combination of food, comedy, alcohol and live music in Manila. Other nightlife clusters in the Metro are Eastwood, Araneta Center, and Timog all in Quezon City.

The introduction of American hip hop music has had a noticeable effect on Philippine night life, serving as the soundtrack to a high-spirited Manila youth culture. Many nightclubs now rival first-world standards both in terms of luxury and vibrancy.

Additionally, there are numerous venues in which to catch elements of an active Philippine alternative rock community. Some venues, such as saGuijo Cafe in Makatihave risen to some prominence.

Sleep

Check city articles for listings

Due to Metro Manila's horrible traffic, those who came for business are advised to stay in the business district they are visiting or as near as possible. Backpackers tend to favour Malate or Makati's Poblacion as they are both atmospheric areas with cheap food, bars, and accommodation. Those who want to avoid the gritty side of Manila typically stay in more affluent districts such as Makati's Ayala Center or Bonifacio Global City.

Standard hotels range from ₱500 to ₱10000, but you can spend more if you want to stay in a luxurious place. Popular hotels such as Shangri-La and Mandarin Oriental are found in Manila and Makati while Marriot hotels just opened a branch in Newport City. Hotels include common frills such as laundry service, telephone, and TV. Motels have a bad reputation and perception by Filipinos as they are viewed as meeting places for illicit sex and things, but they are a cheap option. Condominiums, now easily rented even for short stays via websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com, are found around financial districts and often near commercial establishments.

Stay safe

Metro Manila has its share of common problems for first-time travellers: opportunistic robbers and pickpockets, corrupt cops and bureaucracy, run-down residential areas and shanty towns, and chaotic traffic. If you are first time travelling into the region (or not used to chaotic conditions in other places), keep your guard up at all times. The metro has its numerous rough areas where you are unlikely to visit.

Crime

Violent crime is quite evident in some parts of the metro, but this usually happens among locals, and tourists should not worry a lot, since there are many police and frequent police patrol cars within Metro Manila, especially tourist areas.

Bag-snatching is also common, but, of course, common sense will reduce that threat. Most victims are rich locals.

Theft is prevalent, but common sense will help. Avoid wearing jewelry or flaunting electronics when going to crowded areas. Avoid leaving your valuables inside vehicles, even in secure areas, as criminals may break the windows to steal items.

Beware of the dreaded budol-budol scam; most cases of this happen here. Foreigners are rarely targeted, but don't just accept offers from strangers, especially if they look too attractive.

There are at least 7 major slum areas throughout the metro, but a close observation will make you think there is a lot more, including decrepit communities rising beside rivers and creeks, and a few just lie near tourist hotspots or business districts. Large residential barangays or districts can be as seedy as slums; Tondo and San Andres Bukid in Manila, Commonwealth in Quezon City, and Baclaran and Kabihasnan in Parañaque are just a partial list of such spots, abounding with criminals, drug addicts, and delinquent youth. If you see makeshift houses, narrow alleys, and mangled electricity wires, turn around and go back.

Corruption

Metro Manila has a legendary reputation for street-level corruption, but this is changing. PNP and MMDA has since adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward bribery and extortion, but, corruption remains on local traffic police in some cities. That said, it's now risky to bribe, and some foreigners have been arrested for doing so.

Scams

Metro Manila is not known for scams, but with a bit of common sense, they can be avoided.

The most common scams involve taxi or tricycle drivers, and are not limited to overcharging. Some taxi drivers steal luggage from unwary passengers, and some women have been robbed or raped after riding fake taxis or unlicensed tricycles.

Counterfeit money is common, and many small shops display pieces of fake bills as a warning to customers.

As of 2020, a local variant of the squeegee scam has been reported around Metro Manila, and involves "wiper boys'' who will splash murky water on your car's windshield, wipe them off after, and soon demand payment, with threats they would break your car windows or wreck your hood.

Women travellers

Street sexual harassment cases in Metro Manila is alarmingly high, and women travellers must exercise caution when walking alone. Many streets around Metro Manila are filled with male bystanders, and there are chances you might get sexually harassed, most commonly through simple cat-calls and common wolf whistles, especially if you are dressed scantily (e.g. short shorts, miniskirts/dresses, spaghetti straps). Groping is a risk in crowded locations like street markets and trains. Despite a more liberal culture, dress conservatively so you can blend with the locals and avoid unwanted sexual attention. Wearing a short sleeved blouse, jeans, or a skirt or dress with the hem below the knee will suffice. Plus, learning some key words to shout (e.g. Manghihipo! Manyak!) in case someone gropes you can help.

Women travellers are not advised to take a taxi at night alone: you might fall victim to theft, especially in cases where the driver will spray chloroform to the air conditioner where you will suddenly fall asleep and wake up with your valuables stolen (or in some cases, raped). The same also goes with tricycle drivers, but most victims are primarily call center workers or students.

Terrorism

The region has a high risk for terrorist attacks; security measures have been heightened, with car trunk inspections, metal detectors and bag checks being mandatory in many locations, like malls, office towers, and public transport stations. You are more likely to get hurt or killed in a road accident than a terrorist attack, as bombings are far rare (the latest attacks in Metro Manila that happened are the Rizal Day bombings in 2000 and the Valentine's Day bombings in 2005).

Stay healthy

Tap water provided by the metro's major water service providers Maynilad and Manila Water is usually safe to drink, but quality varies by place, and locals usually boil them just to be safe.

Air quality in Metro Manila is not as worse, but can deteriorate during the cool season (especially on New Year's Day). Areas around major road intersections (e.g. Cubao, Pasay Rotonda) usually have the worst air quality.

Be also aware of stray dogs, but they are not a problem in financial districts such as Makati CBD and Taguig and can be seen only in residential outskirts and non-commercialized suburbs of Metro Manila.

Respect

Inside a women-only car of a train on LRT Line 1

People in Metro Manila have a reputation for snobbery; Manileño folks call country people promdi (from the English phrase from the [province of]) because of different customs. It is best to behave like a laking Maynila (one brought up in Manila) so you can easily get around.

Public views of affection are tolerated, but making out is far from socially acceptable, even in this liberal region of the Philippines. You can make out in public in Luneta and other major parks of its size, but this is not without risk. Making out in public may offend Filipino sensitivities, and some locals will not hesitate to call 911 and turn you in into the police for scandalous behavior. Holding hands are rather acceptable, even to locals.

Public courtesy goes a long way. You must give a seat to women, students, old people and disabled persons in public transport. Jeepneys, buses, and trains have priority seats reserved for them; trains have a women-only car at the front end, not exclusively for women, but also for elderly and disabled people. You will be told to move into the second car (or the middle of the platform at the station) if you go into the women-only area.

Metro Manila has the most relaxed dress code among all places in the Philippines; wearing shorts or tank tops is often acceptable, but without calling unwanted attention depending on place. Churches and government offices follow a strict dress code, where shoulders, armpits and knees must be covered, that means, tank tops, miniskirts, and skimpy shorts are not allowed; you will be refused entry in government offices, while you will not be allowed to take the Holy Communion in churches. Caps and slippers are also prohibited from being worn in those places.

Cope

Electricity

Metro Manila has power 24 hours a day, but there is the possibility of blackouts, either due to natural disasters or unscheduled power plant maintenance. Most outages only last a few hours, but blackouts days or weeks long is a possibility when a very strong typhoon strikes the metro. Meralco (Manila Electric Company) is the only power utility serving Metro Manila; check their website (or some local TV news broadcasters) for any scheduled outages. Most hotels around the metro will have a backup generator in case power goes out. Malls and other large establishments will usually have one also, so they can operate normally while lights are out elsewhere.

Media

Metro Manila is the center of the Philippine media market, and the major television stations are GMA, ABS-CBN, and TV5. Most media are provided in Tagalog, though there are also predominately English-language media.

  • Broadsheet newspapers, like The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer and Manila Bulletin, are almost published in English.
  • There are also free-to-watch television channels that always broadcast most programming in English, such as CNN Philippines (channel 9) and ETC (channel 21). CNN Philippines has newscasts every morning, noon and evening.

Plastics and Styrofoam

Some cities already banned the use of plastics and Styrofoam for packaging, for example, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa. The rest of Metro Manila, including Manila and Quezon City, still permit their use. It is advisable to bring your own cloth bag when shopping; most supermarkets will offer one for a fee.

Embassies and consulates

Being the national capital, Metro Manila hosts a large number of embassies. A majority of them are clustered in Legazpi Village and Dasmariñas Village in Makati City and in Bonifacio Global City in the adjacent Taguig City. There are others in other parts of Metro Manila as well:

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This region travel guide to Metro Manila is an outline and may need more content. It has a template, but there is not enough information present. If there are Cities and Other destinations listed, they may not all be at usable status or there may not be a valid regional structure and a "Get in" section describing all of the typical ways to get here. Please plunge forward and help it grow!


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