Across the world, I am fascinated by the different types of vehicles on the road.
Trucks, cars, buses, taxis, three-wheelers, tuk tuks, peticabs, motorcycles… they may look different the further I get from home; but traffic is traffic.
Watching Traffic Go By in Manila and Romblon Island Town
During my time in the Philippines, I stood or sat on several street corners and filmed the world going by. What I loved most was the contrast between each video. Although the vehicles are the same, the speed which they drive and the lifestyle that surrounds them could not be more different.
For example, the above video was filmed in Manila. Although the Vito Cruz intersection was far from downtown, it was still in constant motion.
Meanwhile, the below video was shot in a major intersection of “downtown” Romblon Island Town. Located 15 hours from mainland Luzon, there was nothing fast or busy on the entire island.
Vehicle Types in the Philippines
In addition to universal vehicle types like cars, trucks and motorcycles, there are quite a few Philippines-specific taxis that can be spotted in these videos.
Jeepney
These converted World War II jeeps are used as communal bus-style taxis. They run on a specific route and passengers can get on and off at any place they want along the way.
Tricycle
Consisting of a motorcycle with a teeny sidecar bolted to the side, this taxi often carries a half-dozen locals at a time: or two tall westerners with backpacks.
Pedicab
A pedicab is very similar to a tricycle; except that it is powered by a push-bike instead of a motorcycle. For some reason, these often seem to be driven by smiling old Filipino men.
Traffic in Angeles City, Philippines
The final video was taken in a local neighborhood in Angeles City near the Dao bus terminal. See how many different types of vehicles you can spot…
You Might Also Like: the story of how I spent 48 hours 15 modes of Filipino transportation to see some coffins and rice fields.
EXPLORE SOMEWHERE NEW
BUY A PRINT
All photos on this site are available as limited edition fine art photographic prints. Please get in touch for sizes and rates.