The guide to paid parking and parking spaces for rent in Manila

I. Parking Space for Rent in Manila: Introduction

In Metro Manila, parking space is fast becoming a precious yet scarce resource. The problem isn't confined to business centers such as Makati, BGC and Ortigas CBD; other public places such as malls, parks, and churches are also experiencing shortages of parking spaces in Manila.

Call it a consequence of a population that is becoming increasingly mobile. However, we can’t exactly blame people for buying their own vehicles since our public transportation system leaves much to be desired. The result? Many of us resort to car purchases, traffic and ownership costs are damned.

There's is no doubt that this...

...leads to this. And yes, this is a crowded parking lot

As such, here’s Philkotse.com's guide to the various paid parking or rented parking spots in Metro Manila. Do note though, this is by no means an exhaustive list, as we have largely avoided places that tend to be fully occupied most of the time. We’re also going to mention alternatives that might just work in specific areas.

II. List of pay parking in Manila

For many people, malls like SM and Robinsons are ideal for parking your beloved vehicles, especially if your office or workplace is just nearby but doesn’t have enough space for parking. Most mall parking facilities are not free, however, and can sometimes cost a pretty penny.

One thing you get from these places is relative security and protection from the elements, especially in the case of indoor parking, that's why motorists avail of these facilities on a regular basis.

For example, SM Manila Parking hours typically start as early as 6 or 7 in the morning, with closing times at 11 in the evening or even midnight as accommodation for the day's last screenings at the cinema.

Parking space inside SM Manila megamall

>>> You might like want to read: Driver tips: 9 tips to protect your car when there is no parking lot

Some malls charge a flat rate regardless of how long you park, while others only have a flat rate for the first two hours and then resort to hourly charging beyond that. Leaving your car overnight can cost more, and is subject to prior arrangements made with the mall management.

In places that don’t have malls for parking, there are dedicated parking areas that look like empty lots, especially around the Ortigas CBD area. These are also pay parking facilities, with a number of them allowing overnight parking in Manila

For your convenience, here’s a table of commercial parking spaces in and around Metro Manila.

1. Parking space near or within Ortigas CBD

Ortigas CBD skyline, home to Philkotse as well as other multinational and local businesses

>>> Read more: Proof of Parking Space Act: What is it and how will it help?

2. Parking near U.S. Embassy Roxas Boulevard, Parañaque, Metro Manila

Okaka Parking manila is free for guests

>>> Also check: 6 handy tips to find your car in a parking lot in PH

III. Paid parking lots in Makati BGC

Parking lot inside Bonifacio Global City

As you can see from the tables above, parking generally gets more expensive when you leave your vehicle during office hours that typically last from 9 am to 5 pm. There are those who get around this by resorting to certain practices that many will find questionable, at the very least.

• Certain businesses that offer free parking will require a validated parking ticket, which you can get by making any purchase from their store. Some people take advantage of this by overextending their parking until the wee hours of the night.
• Buildings that house call centers typically have parking spaces for their personnel. Some motorists just enter the facility and casually lie to the guard about working there so they can avail of free parking.
• Some government buildings, like city hall complexes, have parking spaces. Most of the time these spaces are full, but if you manage to get a slot, then your car will be secure - until 5.PM. Fail to pick up your car before then, and you risk having it impounded with a hefty fine for illegal parking in Manila
• Other drivers would park their car in the house of a relative or friend who lives near their workplace. This generally depends on the person's generosity

>>> Worth to note: 5 easy car parking tips for Filipino drivers

IV. Parking Spaces for rent in Metro Manila

If you aren’t particularly amenable to the idea of leaving behind your vehicle in one of the commercial parking areas listed above, another option would be to rent or lease monthly parking in Manila

In areas around Ortigas CBD, rented parking slots are usually multi-level parking facilities found in commercial buildings and condominiums. These units will cost you anywhere from ₱4,500 to ₱9,000. Similar rates are charged by parking facilities in Makati and BGC.

A typical parking space for rent, the multi-level structure made of concrete with unpainted walls

Did you find this guide helpful, or do you think there are parts that need updating? Let us know in the comments section. Don’t forget to visit our page at Philkotse.com for more helpful advice for car owners.