Comprehensive Guide for Travelers to Iloilo City: Tips for Locals and Visitors in 2025
Iloilo City, a bustling metropolis in the Philippines, is known for its comprehensive public transport system consisting of 25 numbered jeepney routes (1-25) [1]. However, the city's transportation system faces challenges due to poor mobility infrastructure, which threatens its economic momentum and public health [3].
In 2025, Iloilo City's transportation predominantly relies on traditional jeepneys and buses, with limited modernized or electric vehicle options. Ride-hailing and taxi services operate but lack notable updates [3][5].
Grab Philippines, a popular ride-hailing service, is fully operational in Iloilo City with 900 out of 1,200 TNVS (Transport Network Vehicle Service) slots [2]. Grab offers services such as GrabCar, GrabTaxi, GrabFood, and GrabExpress. Key features of Grab services include upfront pricing, GPS tracking, safety features, cashless payment options, and 100% vaccinated driver-partners.
However, traditional taxis like Light of Glory Transport Services Inc., marketed as "the safest and cleanest taxi in Iloilo," remain a popular choice. Jeepney rides within the city, such as from Benigno Aquino Avenue to Calinog, Janiuay, Cabatuan, or Sta. Barbara, cost only ₱16 (USD 0.30) [1].
In terms of public transportation, jeepneys and buses remain the primary modes, but they suffer from mobility inefficiencies. Iloilo was not included in the government's "Bus Love" pilot testing or revival plan announced in July 2025, indicating no immediate upgrades to bus services from this national program for Iloilo [5].
One notable exception is the introduction of electric taxis by Quarry Taxi, the first operator in Region 6, with an initial deployment of 5 electric units [4].
For those travelling further, Ceres Terminal (Jaro) provides routes to provinces across Panay Island, including Antique, Capiz, and Aklan. The Guimaras RORO Terminal is accessible via Route 10 jeepneys for ferry connections to Guimaras Island. Iloilo-Bacolod Ferry Terminal is accessible via city jeepneys for an alternative to flying for Negros Occidental destinations.
Private transfer services like Klook start at USD 11.79 for 2 passengers. Ungka Terminal (Jaro) offers regional buses and jeepneys as a gateway to various Iloilo towns.
In summary, Iloilo City offers diverse transportation options, including traditional jeepneys, modern ride-hailing services like Grab, electric taxis, and traditional taxi services. However, the city's growth momentum is at risk unless the infrastructure challenges are addressed [3][5].
References: 1. Iloilo City Transportation 2. Grab Philippines in Iloilo City 3. Iloilo City's Transportation Challenges 4. Quarry Taxi Introduces Electric Taxis in Iloilo 5. No Bus Love for Iloilo City
In 2025, the finance sector in Iloilo City may see a boost due to the expansion of ride-hailing services like Grab Philippines, offering services such as GrabCar, GrabTaxi, GrabFood, and GrabExpress, with key features including upfront pricing, GPS tracking, and cashless payment options. However, the city's lifestyle and travel industries could face setbacks if the ongoing mobility infrastructure challenges are not addressed, potentially hampering the growth and public health of Iloilo City. Despite the introduction of electric taxis by Quarry Taxi, traditional modes of transportation like jeepneys and buses remain the primary means for travel within the city, suggesting a need for investment in finance-backed modernization and improvement in these sectors.
