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Driving Rules in the Philippines
Driving is on the right-hand side of the highway with overtaking on the left. Most roads are of two lanes and many are narrow with no pedestrian sidewalk, so you'll encounter people and dogs walking on the road shoulder. Traffic is controlled by traffic lights but at peak times may be controlled by police officers.
On many routes in towns and villages traffic is controlled by speed bumps. These may or may not be indicated beforehand. Be aware that driving is hazardous. In cities, especially in Manila, roads are gridlocked with traffic, while on rural roads speed will be dictated by the slowest moving vehicle. This may be a cart pulled by a water buffalo or a motorcycle taxi.
It's possible to rent a car at the airport on your arrival or to pick up the vehicle at your hotel. Many rental comapnies will travel to your hotel to deliver a vehicle. Major companies such as Avis, Europcar and Hertz are established here but you may get a more competitive rate with a local company.
A full national or an international driving license will be needed for rental. Minimum age for rental is 21 with a full license for at least one year (some companies have a minimum age requirement of 25 for some vehicles).
Buses and Taxis
Taxis make an excellent form of transpot both for single journeys and for sightseeing. The fleet has been modernized in recent years of offers comfortable and reliable vehicles. Journeys are suppposed to be metered but these are rarely used, so agree a price beforehand (ask you hotel reception for a guide price). Taxi drivers are also happy to agree a set price for a morning, day or few days sightseeing so you don't have the worry of navigating around the island. Again, agree a price beforehand.
The bus network on Luzon and Mindanao is comprehensive, but journeys may be long and uncomfortable, with many buses being old and not well-maintained, and the timetables may not be ideal for sightseeing. You can find local timetables at all bus depots or stations.