7 Grab alternatives for transportation in the Philippines

Traveling in and around Metro Manila is a real hassle because it can be time-consuming and, most of the time, frustrating, especially if you’re commuting. So, if you have the means, the new default has been the Transportation Network Vehicle Service or TNVS, particularly Grab.

However, since Grab became the most popular ride-hailing app in the metro, there are times when getting a car becomes difficult. So, in this article, let’s take a look at other transportation alternatives besides Grab in Metro Manila.

1. Angkas

Angkas is like the motorcycle taxi counterpart of Grab and is also one of the more popular transportation options in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Cagayan De Oro, which you can easily notice with their blue helmets with a scooter logo. 

With every ride, Angkas ensures that its passengers will have a safe, convenient, and affordable ride from the moment they step onto their motorcycle until they arrive at their destination. 

You will also receive a facemask and shower caps for every trip that you can use under their sanitized helmets. Also, you should follow their social media accounts for their frequent promo codes to pay a lower fee. 

To use Angkas:

Step 1: Download the Angkas app in Google Play, App Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Then register.

Step 2: Open the app and select Angkas Passenger from the Service Types.

Step 3: Set up your pickup and drop-off point.
Step 4: Wait for your biker to arrive.

2. Avis Philippines

Avis is an International car rental brand that operates in different parts of the Philippines, including Metro Manila, and is known for their safe and reliable transport services. Among their transportation options include self-drive, chauffeur-driven, airport transfer, pickup and drop-off service, and leasing. 

These wide selections of services allow Avis customers to choose the type of transportation they need. Whether they are looking to drive themselves, be chauffeured, or simply be picked up or dropped off, Avis can give it to you.

To use their service, you can go to their official website or through their mobile app to make a booking. 

3. ePickMeUp

ePickMeUp offers various services through their “magnanimous solutions” using their mobile app. Though their main services are transportation, like taxis, car rentals, and motorcycle taxis, they also provide food delivery services. 

They also advertise a hassle-free experience that ensures that your trip will be safe and convenient through the help of their professional drivers. Before booking a trip, you may also use their website to estimate your fare. 

To use ePickMeUp:

Step 1: Download their app on Google Play or the App Store and register.

Step 2: Provide your pickup and drop-off locations.

Step 3: Choose your vehicle type from a taxi, sedan, or SUV.

Step 4: Enjoy your ride.

4. JoyRide

JoyRide is a home-grown ride-hailing and delivery app that started with their accreditation as a motorcycle taxi service in 2019, along with Angkas and MoveIt, and has since expanded to other transportation services, like their private car-hailing service and their recent expansion to the taxi business with their JoyRide Super Taxi.

To use the JoyRide Superapp:

Step 1: Download the app via Google Play or the App Store. Then, register.

Step 2: On the home page, select your transportation from MC Taxi, Car, or Taxi Cab.

Step 3: Input your Pickup and Drop-off Location.

Step 4: Select your Car Type: 4-seater or 6-seater.

Step 5: Tap Confirm Booking and wait for your ride to arrive.

5. Move It

Move It is the third motorcycle taxi service on the list, along with Angkas and JoyRide. It also offers customers the accessibility, affordability, and ability to skirt around the Metro Manila traffic while ensuring a safe trip with their two-wheeled vehicles.

To use the Move It app:

Step 1: Download the app through Google Play or the App Store.

Step 2: Register using your Google Account or Phone Number. Then, input your basic information.

Step 3: Tap the Mototaxi button.

Step 4: Identify your pickup and drop-off location.

Step 5: Choose your preferred Payment Method. You can also add promo codes if it’s available.

Step 6: Tap “Move it now” and wait for your rider to pick you up.

6. Toktok Go

TokTok Go is not just another ride-hailing app in the metro. They also have their own style of providing safe and convenient transportation for anyone looking for other means of moving around the city. 

They currently offer three vehicle options to choose from: Sedan (two passengers), Small MPV (2 to 4 passengers), and Large MPV (3 to 7 passengers). 

To use the Toktok Go app:

Step 1: Download the app via Google Play or the App Store, then register.

Step 2: To book a ride, input your pickup and drop-off points.

Step 3: Choose your vehicle type.

Step 4: Choose your payment method.

Step 5: Tap confirm booking and wait for the car to arrive.

7. Sakay.PH

When everything else fails, and you just can’t book any of the mentioned TNVS, whether a motorcycle, car or even taxi, then you’ll have to commute. But this time, you’ll use Sakay.PH.

Sakay.PH, as they say, is your Metro Manila Commuting Guide, and they can totally be specific with their transportation suggestions.

Once you have identified your origin and destination, they will provide a list of transportation options, including using the best public transportation available. These suggestions may include jeepneys, trains, buses, P2P, UV Express, Ferry, and more.

They will also include the estimated arrival time, walking time, and an estimated fare. So, you will have the options based on your priority, whether it be to be quick, cheap, least walking time, and most convenient.

You can also use their app, which is available via the App Store or Google Play.

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Navigating the urban jungle of Metro Manila can be scary, tiring, or just too much of a hassle. So, if you have the means, you’ll need to spend more through the listed premium transportation services that will allow you to move faster, safer, and more convenient. But if you want to save money, you’ll need to be more creative and use the Sakay.PH app.

Which alternative transportation services besides Grab have you tried? How was your experience? Share them in the comments.