ICYDK: There's a Five-Peso Boat Ride from Mandaluyong to Makati

(SPOT.ph) In Metro Manila, there are three constants when it comes to commuting conditions: One, the traffic jam is bad during rush hour (whether in the morning or in the evening); two, it's worse when it's raining; and three, it's worst when it's also a payday Friday. Plus, there's an extra challenge if you're attempting to go to or from a business district like Makati City. Our roads seem to be always bursting at the seams with a lot of private cars and a few public vehicles, and it's always upon us to look for alternatives. One option if you're shuffling between Mandaluyong and Makati is via Pasig River through the little-known but ever-dependable boat service locally known as "Tawiran." It's an alternative to crossing the Makati-Mandaluyong Bridge or Estrella-Pantaleon Bridge/Rockwell Bridge by car, especially when there's a traffic jam.

Also read:
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What is this alternative public transport between Mandaluyong and Makati?

Not to be confused with the MMDA Pasig River Ferry Service, the Tawiran transports people between the terminal along Coronado Street in Hulo, Mandaluyong, and a makeshift port near the Makati Museum in Poblacion, Makati. Jeepneys with Hulo and/or Kalentong signboards regularly ply Coronado Street along the banks of the Pasig River.

The Makati Museum on the other end is within walking distance of the many restaurants and bars in Poblacion. It's also right in front of a tricycle terminal, which can bring you to other places in the area. From there, you can also hop on a jeep that brings you to Guadalupe EDSA, Rockwell, or Circuit Makati; or those with signboards Paco-Taft-Herran or Bukid-Taft.

The one-way fare costs only P5 and the ride takes from two to three minutes across the Pasig River. The boat, which has a roof, can sit up to 20 passengers; but, you don't have to worry about crowding since it usually leaves as soon as there are no more people waiting in line. Orange life jackets, though not required to be worn, are kept in plastic bags on the ceiling of the boat.

The Tawiran in Hulo, Mandaluyong and Poblacion, Makati is open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. One-way fare is P5, as of writing.