Simple reasons why commuting is so damn difficult in Metro Manila

Public transportation is a crucial aspect of any developed nation as it allows for easy mobility and accessibility. However, in the Philippines, using public transportation is often a daunting task for its citizens due to several reasons. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why public transportation in the Philippines is so difficult to use and what measures need to be taken to improve the situation.

1. Insufficient Infrastructure: The Philippines is a developing country and as such, the government has not been able to invest much in the infrastructure needed to support a reliable public transportation system. The roads are often poorly maintained, and the public transportation system is inadequate. This leads to a lack of bus and train services, which makes it difficult for people to get from one place to another.
2. Overcrowding: The public transportation system in the Philippines is often overcrowded, making it uncomfortable and sometimes even dangerous for commuters. Buses and trains are often filled beyond capacity, making it difficult for people to find a seat, let alone move around comfortably. This can lead to long wait times and even more overcrowding, making public transportation an unpleasant experience for most people.
3. Lack of Safety Measures: Public transportation in the Philippines is often lacking in safety measures, which makes it dangerous for commuters. Buses and trains are often old and poorly maintained, and there are often no safety barriers or emergency exits. This puts commuters at risk of accidents and makes public transportation a frightening experience for many people.
4. Traffic Congestion: The streets of Manila, the capital of the Philippines, are known for their intense traffic congestion. This makes it difficult for buses and trains to operate on time, causing delays and making public transportation a frustrating experience for commuters.
5. Corruption and Inefficiency: Corruption and inefficiency are also major problems in the public transportation system of the Philippines. Bus and train drivers often overcharge passengers, and there have been reports of corruption in the allocation of routes and schedules. This makes public transportation a difficult and often expensive experience for commuters.

In conclusion, public transportation in the Philippines is a crucial aspect of life for its citizens, but it is also a difficult and often frustrating experience due to several factors such as insufficient infrastructure, overcrowding, lack of safety measures, traffic congestion, and corruption and inefficiency. To improve the situation, the government needs to invest in infrastructure and safety measures, improve public transportation services, and address corruption and inefficiency. By doing so, the public transportation system in the Philippines can become a more accessible, reliable, and safe option for commuters.