Cebu City offers a variety of transportation options, ranging from modern ride-hailing apps to traditional local transport. Whether you’re heading to class, exploring the city, or going on a weekend trip, it’s important to choose the right method for convenience, safety, and cost.
At 3D ACADEMY, we strongly recommend that students use Grab, the most reliable and safest transportation option in Cebu.
1. Grab (Recommended)
Grab is the most trusted ride-hailing app in the Philippines, similar to Uber or Lyft in other countries. It allows you to book a car or taxi through your smartphone with fixed rates, driver tracking, and cashless payment options (or cash, if preferred).
Why We Recommend Grab:
- Safe and secure: All drivers are registered and rated.
- No price negotiation: The fare is calculated before the ride starts.
- GPS tracking: You can share your location with friends or staff.
- Convenient pickup: You can be picked up directly from JY Square Mall or school entrance.
- Available 24/7: Especially useful at night or after class.
We recommend downloading the Grab app before arriving in Cebu. You will need a local SIM card to register and use the service efficiently.
2. Traditional Taxis
Taxis are available throughout Cebu, but they are less reliable compared to Grab. While some taxi drivers are honest and professional, others may try to overcharge, avoid using the meter, or take longer routes.
Tips for Using Taxis:
- Always ask the driver to turn on the meter.
- Have small change ready (some drivers claim not to have change).
- Only take taxis from official taxi stands or large malls.
For these reasons, most students prefer using Grab over traditional taxis.
3. Motorcycle Taxis (Angkas or Habal-Habal)
Motorcycle taxis are common in Cebu and can be convenient for short trips, especially in traffic. “Angkas” is a popular app-based motorcycle service, while “habal-habal” are informal motorbike taxis you find on the street.
Pros:
- Cheaper and faster during rush hour
- Can reach narrow or hilly roads
Cons:
- Not recommended for beginners or students unfamiliar with Cebu
- Less protection in case of accident
- Habal-habal drivers are often unregulated and risky
If you choose to ride a motorcycle taxi, we recommend using the Angkas app, which provides helmets and proper registration.
4. Jeepneys (Local Buses)
Jeepneys are the most common and cheapest form of public transportation in the Philippines. These colorful vehicles follow fixed routes and cost between PHP 13–20 per ride.
However, we generally do NOT recommend jeepneys for new students due to the following reasons:
- No clear route maps or signs (routes are written in Cebuano or abbreviations)
- Can be overcrowded, especially during rush hours
- No air conditioning
- Pickpocket risk
Once you are familiar with the area, you may try jeepneys for short rides—but always be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
5. MyBus (Modern City Bus)
MyBus is a government-supported, air-conditioned city bus system that connects Cebu City with Mactan Cebu International Airport, malls, and key locations.
Pros:
- Cheap and comfortable (PHP 25–40)
- Fixed stops and schedule
- Safer than jeepneys
Cons:
- Limited routes that may not reach your destination directly
- Slower than Grab if you’re in a hurry
Useful for students going to the airport or SM Seaside Mall.
6. Walking and Safety Tips
JY Square Mall is centrally located in Lahug, Cebu, and many cafes, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. You can walk safely during the daytime, but be extra careful at night.
Safety Tips for Walking:
- Do not walk alone after 9:00 PM—use Grab instead
- Keep your phone and valuables out of sight
- Use sidewalks or well-lit roads when available
Final Tips for Transportation
- Download and set up the Grab app as soon as you arrive
- Buy a local SIM card at the airport or nearby 7-Eleven for easy app access
- Always prioritize safety over saving a few pesos
- Ask staff for advice if you’re unsure about directions or transportation options
✅ Summary: Best Choice for Students
| Transport |
Recommended? |
Notes |
| Grab |
✅ Highly Recommended |
Safe, convenient, trackable |
| Taxi |
⚠️ Use with caution |
Meter issues, risk of scams |
| Angkas |
⚠️ Advanced users only |
Helmet provided, but risky |
| Jeepney |
❌ Not for beginners |
Cheap but confusing and crowded |
| MyBus |
⭕ Airport or mall trips |
Clean and cheap but limited |
Conclusion
Cebu City offers many ways to get around, but not all are ideal for international students. To ensure your comfort and safety, we strongly recommend using Grab for your daily transportation. It’s the easiest, most secure, and most student-friendly option—perfect for short-term or long-term stays.
Whether you’re heading to class, exploring the city, or traveling on the weekend, remember: when in doubt, Grab it!
