Calesas in Binondo Manila

Originally uploaded by photosheep.

Often considered anachronistic yet never completely replaced, calesas – small-horse drawn carriages supported on two tall wheels, built to accomodate two passengers and their baggage – can be found in almost every major town and city throughout Philippines.

In Manila, city officials have made the cocheros (drivers) sanitize their chrages by suspending a diaper-like piece of canvas beneath the pony’s tail to catch any unsightly (but useful) droppins. Impatient car and jeepney drivers may honk and scream, but kabayo (horse) and cochero pay no mind. As in ages past, they will take you where you want to go, slowly but surely.