I use taxis all the time in Manila...but at the right price, buses and Jeepneys too.
Yes, I save a few pesos on everything, using the exact same services as every other visitor.
Those pesos mount up.
That's probably why I've been able to have numerous visits there numbering months or years rather than weeks.
Nothing wrong with being careful with my money...'look after the pennies' etc.![]()