I spent the day using UBER as a means of transportation instead of driving, and I am very impressed by the implementation of their system. Finally, a transport system that actually works in the Philippines!
I like how the system is setup to be secure for both the driver and passenger:
- You know the name of the UBER account holder and plate number before hand.
- A copy of your trip with a map and route is saved on your account for reference.
- No need to carry cash or valuables when riding. Your phone is optional after you requested for a ride, since payments are debited to your credit card
- The driver does not know your destination before hand.
- You get receipts and detailed trip information via your UBER account and email.
- Rating based system for both driver and rider serves to be an effective deterrent against unwelcomed behavior.
Yes, the cost is a bit more than traditional taxi cabs, but that’s what you pay for convenience. I’d gladly pay 50 to 100 pesos more if it means that:
- I do not need to wait in line for a ride
- No more haggling with the driver before and after riding the cab.
- have some control over the type of vehicle I ride.
- pay for and get a ride for loved-ones or friends …at my expense 🙂
- it is still cheaper than driving if you compute the cost of gas and parking fees. Not to mention the physical toll that Manila traffic has on your body when driving.
There are drawbacks to the system like:
- having a credit or debit card
- having a smart phone
- having an internet connection
- not regulated by government ...who needs this when the regulating bodies are; to put it lightly… incompetent!
But these requirements are really a non-issue when compared to the benefits you get in return …Beside, majority if not all the people UBER is trying to target already have these.
I’m glad it’s implemented here legally. It is a welcomed transport system that actually works for the people using and providing it. It also provides stiff competition to other transport groups who have become complacent and simply uncompetitive due to their monopoly over certain routes and transport types.