MANILA, Philippines – Horse-drawn carriages or the kalesa is a common sight in historic Intramuros in Manila. Once a common mode of transportation back in the Spanish colonial period, they are now popular rides for tourists looking to do some sightseeing around the Walled City.
Ride-hailing app Grab puts the spotlight on the kalesa this weekend, offering an on-demand booking service that takes passengers around Intramuros for free.
From 2 pm to 5 pm on August 20 and 21, passengers can take a free ride using the app's special GrabKalesa option. The trip begins and ends at Plaza Roma in Intramuros.
To book a ride, passengers need to choose the GrabKalesa icon on the Grab app during the booking date and period. The pick-up and drop-off points should both specify Plaza Roma.
The ride will pass through the streets of the historic Walled City, taking visitors around to see popular tourist sites in Intramuros, such as the Manila Cathedral, Palacio del Gobernador, Baluarte de San Andres, Casa Manila, San Agustin Church, and Fort Santiago, among others.
Each kalesa can seat up to 3 passengers only, and the trip will last 30 minutes.
In its promotional page, Grab said the promotion aims to promote and recognize the kutseros – the drivers of the horse-drawn carriages – and the vast knowledge of history and culture that they impart to their passengers on every trip.
The bookings will also contribute to donations for the drivers and their horses. – Katerina Francisco/Rappler.com