Basic Road Courtesies When Driving in the Philippines

Driving on Philippine highways can be quite challenging. Aside from the usual challenges, you’ll also have to deal with road situations that are unique here. But by being constantly courteous and cautious, you’ll be able to smoothly navigate your way through these issues. So for your convenience, here’s a list of some of the basic road courtesies when driving in the Philippines.

Do Basic Check-Ups

Before you hit the road, you should at least check your car for any damages. That way, you can avoid any potential trouble that might result from them. So do the standard BLOWFATCH tune up to see if everything is in order. You should also inspect your tires and be ready to order online with us here at GoGulong in case you need replacements. Finally, clean the interior and get rid of any trash.

Don’t Text or Call While Driving

This is already obvious, but using your phone while driving increases your risk of getting into an accident. This endagers not only you but other motorists as well. So refrain from picking up your phone while on the road under any circumstances. But in case it’s an emergency, you should pull to the side first before answering the call. Philippine roads and highways have lay-bys made for that very purpose.

Always Yield to Pedestrians

Roads are made for people, not vehicles. Thus, pedestrians must always have the right-of-way. Whenever you see someone crossing the road, you should always let them pass through. It doesn't matter if they’re walking at the designated crossing or not. You should always make way for them. And you should avoid overtaking vehicles that have stopped due to pedestrians.

Slow Down in Areas With Children

At the same time, you should also watch out in case you’re driving near areas with children. These include schools, parks, and playgrounds. Kids behave quite unpredictably in these places. To avoid the worst, you need to be extra careful when passing by these venues. Drive more slowly than you’re used to. And stop whenever a kid happens to cross the road and wait until they’re in a safer distance.

Avoid Honking Your Horn

Moreover, try to refrain from honking your horn needlessly while you’re behind the wheel. That horn is there to help you warn other drivers if you’re too near each other or when you’re experiencing car trouble. So you shouldn’t honk it to vent out your anger or just to annoy other people. And you should certainly avoid doing so in certain public areas like schools, churches, gated subdivisions, etc.

Signal When Overtaking or Changing Lanes

Make it a point to turn on your signal lights whenever you’re switching lanes or overtaking other vehicles. Doing so helps notify other drivers about your intentions, thus allowing them to respond accordingly. In case your signal lights are broken for one reason or another, use hand signals instead.

Know the Speed Limit

Lastly, you should observe the speed limits of the roads you're on. The Philippines has several major roads and highways, each with their own minimum and maximum speed limit. These limits also vary based on the kind of vehicle you’re driving. For example, Most Pinoy expressways have a minimum speed requirement of 60kph. However, trucks and buses must not exceed 80kph, whereas smaller vehicles can speed up to 100kph.

Stay Courteous While Driving

You need to mind your road manners while driving to stay safe, as well as to avoid dealing with those pesky traffic enforcers. So best remember to observe the basic courtesies listed above while you’re behind the wheel.