Barko

By: Troy Peden
Posted on: Philippines, Transportation

The Barko, otherwise known as a ferry boat, is an essential cog in the transportation infrastructure of the Philippines. The country is made up of over 7,000 islands, most of which have no airports. Workers utilize the barkos to return to their home islands from their jobs in Manila, making many routes crowded.

Practical Information:

The danger factor is real. Rusty, deteriorating boats are still in commission. Past barko disasters make the Titanic look like a minor incident. Recently, the Philippine government has been cracking down on negligent barko owners and prosecuting for fatalities. Still one should locate life vests and life boats before boarding and say a prayer.

photo by: moody75