The Manila Metro Rail Transit System, commonly known as MRT-3 or the Blue Line, is a major player in the Philippines’ public transportation system. This 16.9-kilometer rail system runs along EDSA, one of Metro Manila‘s major thoroughfares, helping to ease some of the problems brought by the severe traffic congestion in the area. MRT-3 also offers significant benefits to daily commuters by providing a faster, more efficient alternative to road travel.
MRT-3, often referred to as the Blue Line, was inaugurated in 1999 and has since become a necessity when it comes to urban mobility in Metro Manila. With its 13 stations, it serves as a backbone for thousands of EDSA commuters every day. Understanding the MRT-3 system and learning more about the stations along this line is quite helpful, especially if you are intent on navigating the city and in ensuring smoother and more convenient travel.
What is MRT-3?
MRT-3, the Blue Line, is quite distinct. It differs from LRT-1 and LRT-2 in several ways, such as:
- It primarily runs along EDSA, a major highway, and serves the densely populated areas on the east-west route.
- It has a high passenger capacity, allowing it to transport 23,000 passengers per hour per direction, which can be expanded to 48,000 passengers per hour.
- Unlike the LRT-2 which serves the Recto to Antipolo corridor, the MRT-3 serves a broader metro rail network along EDSA.
- Each MRT-3 station is averagely spaced by 1,300 meters, though some stations may be 730 meters to 2210 meters apart.
- MRT-3 boasts of integration with other modes of transportation, such as buses and jeepneys.
- It also features modern infrastructure including:
- Articulated, air-conditioned rail cars
- Automated fare collection and
- Safety features like closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitoring
Full List of MRT-3 Stations
Understanding the MRT-3 stations from North to South can greatly enhance your commuting experience. Below is a detailed list of each station, including its location, landmarks, features, and a brief description.
North Avenue Station
Location: Quezon City
Landmarks: TriNoma, Vertis North, SM City North EDSA
Features: Elevated station, wheelchair accessible, bus terminal
As the northernmost terminus and the first station in the MRT Line, the North Avenue Station connects commuters from Valenzuela and Bulacan to Metro Manila’s transportation network. It is also connected to Trinoma Mall across from SM North EDSA.
Quezon Avenue Station
Location: Quezon City
Landmarks: University of the Philippines-Diliman, ABS-CBN Network, Philippine Science High School
Features: Elevated station, close to major schools and government offices
This station is frequented by students and professionals traveling to various institutions along Quezon Avenue.
Kamuning Station
Location: Quezon City
Landmarks: GMA Network, Land Transportation Office (LTO), Quezon Memorial Circle
Features: Elevated station, proximity to government offices
Located near Barangay Kamuning, it offers access to Timog Avenue and several key offices.
Araneta Center-Cubao Station
Location: Quezon City
Landmarks: Araneta Coliseum, Farmer’s Plaza, Gateway Mall
Features: Elevated station, major transfer point with LRT-2
A bustling hub for commuters, this station connects to various shopping and entertainment destinations.
Santolan-Annapolis Station
Location: Quezon City
Landmarks: Camp Aguinaldo, Greenhills Shopping Center
Features: Elevated station, access to military camps and shopping areas
Positioned between Annapolis Street and Santolan Road, providing access to key locations in Katipunan and Eastwood City.
Ortigas Station
Location: Pasig City
Landmarks: Robinson’s Galleria, SM Megamall, Asian Development Bank
Features: Elevated station, central business district access
Serving the Ortigas Business District, this station is crucial for daily commuters heading to key landmarks.
Shaw Boulevard Station
Location: Mandaluyong City
Landmarks: EDSA Shangri-La Plaza, University of Asia and the Pacific
Features: At-grade station, central terminal
Popular with students and professionals, providing access to Greenfield District and other key areas.
Boni Station
Location: Mandaluyong City
Landmarks: Rizal Technological University, SM Light Residences
Features: At-grade station, hub for condominium residents
A convenient stop for students and residents in the area, connecting to various educational and commercial establishments.
Guadalupe Station
Location: Makati City
Landmarks: Rockwell Center, University of Makati
Features: Elevated station, proximity to key landmarks
Offering connections to eastern Makati, Fort Bonifacio, and Mandaluyong.
Buendia Station
Location: Makati City
Landmarks: Makati Central Business District, Department of Trade and Industry
Features: At-grade station, key business district access
Serving professionals and business travelers heading to Makati’s central areas.
Ayala Station
Location: Makati City
Landmarks: Makati Central Business District, Bonifacio Global City, SM Makati
Features: Depressed station, major commercial hub
A bustling stop for employees, students, and shoppers, with easy access to various corporate and commercial establishments.
Magallanes Station
Location: Makati City
Landmarks: Asia Pacific College, Don Bosco Technical Institute
Features: Elevated station, access to South Luzon Expressway
Conveniently located near major points in the metro, serving as a gateway for commuters traveling to and from the south.
Taft Avenue Station
Location: Pasay City
Landmarks: SM Mall of Asia, Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Features: At-grade station, southern terminus
The southern end of MRT-3, providing vital connections to various transport options and major destinations in Pasay.
Fees
The fare system for MRT-3 is distance-based, ensuring that passengers pay for the length of their journey. This system is designed to be fair and affordable for daily commuters.
- Base Fare: PHP 13.00
- Additional Distance Fare: PHP 1.00 per kilometer
- Maximum Fare: PHP 28.00
Payments
MRT-3 offers multiple payment methods to make commuting convenient for everyone. These options include:
- Single Journey Tickets (SJT): Purchase for one-time use.
- Stored Value Cards (SVC): Reloadable cards for frequent travelers.
- Contactless Payments: Pay via NFC-enabled devices.
Schedule
The train schedule for MRT-3 ensures efficient and timely service for daily commuters. Regular operation times are as follows:
- Weekdays:
- Morning: 4:30 AM – 7:00 AM (14 trains, 5-5.5 min headway)
- Peak: 7:01 AM – 9:00 AM (18 trains, 4 min headway)
- Off Peak: 9:01 AM – 5:00 PM (14 trains, 5-5.5 min headway)
- Night: 7:01 PM – 10:40 PM (14 trains, 5-5.5 min headway)
- Weekends:
- Saturday: 4:30 AM – 10:40 PM (varying headways)
- Sunday/Holidays: 4:30 AM – 10:40 PM (12 trains, 6.5-7 min headway)
Additional Stations / Future Expansions
The MRT-3 system is continuously evolving to better serve its passengers. Future expansions and additional stations aim to enhance connectivity.
- Proposed Stations: Further north and south expansions, including provisions for MRT-4, -5, -7, -8, -10, and -11. The future expansion of Metro Manila’s MRT system includes plans for several new lines to address increasing transportation demands and improve connectivity.
- MRT-4 will link Ortigas Center in Pasig to Taytay in Rizal, easing traffic congestion along Ortigas Avenue and providing a reliable transit option for commuters in eastern Metro Manila.
- MRT-5, also known as the Makati Subway, aims to serve key areas within Makati City, enhancing accessibility and reducing travel time within the bustling business district.
- MRT-7 will connect North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, significantly improving access for residents of northern Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
- MRT-8 is a proposed line that will run from Cubao in Quezon City to San Mateo in Rizal, providing an alternative route for commuters traveling between these areas and reducing reliance on road transport.
- The MRT-9, also known as the Diliman-Quirino Line, is a line which intends to connect the bustling districts of Diliman in Quezon City to several strategic locations, including major educational institutions, business hubs, and densely populated residential areas and to the historic area of Quiapo in Manila in an effort to reduce travel times for commuters, alleviate road traffic congestion, and provide a reliable and efficient transit option for the residents and other commuters along this route.
- MRT-10 is planned to connect Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City to Rodriguez (formerly Montalban) in Rizal, addressing the transportation needs of growing suburban communities.
- MRT-11 is a proposed line aimed at connecting the northern part of Metro Manila to Bulacan, further extending the reach of the MRT system and providing better transit options for commuters in these regions.
Each of these expansions is designed to improve overall transportation efficiency, reduce traffic congestion, and offer more sustainable travel options for Metro Manila residents. These future MRT lines are part of a broader effort to modernize and expand the city’s public transportation network, ensuring it meets the needs of a rapidly growing population.
- Upgraded Facilities: Enhanced amenities and safety features
- Increased Capacity: Additional trains and improved infrastructure
Dos and Don’ts for Commuters
Using the MRT-3 in Metro Manila can significantly ease your commute, but it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth and safe journey. By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you can contribute to a more pleasant experience for yourself and fellow passengers. Here’s a list to keep in mind if you wish to ensure a safe and pleasant journey:
Dos:
- Plan Ahead: Check the schedule and plan your trip accordingly to avoid peak hours and crowded trains.
- Have Your Ticket Ready: Purchase and prepare your ticket or fare card in advance to avoid delays at the station.
- Stand on the Right: When using escalators, stand on the right side to allow others to pass on the left.
- Mind Your Belongings: Keep an eye on your personal items to prevent theft and loss.
- Offer Seats: Give up your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, and those with disabilities.
Don’ts:
- Block the Doors: Do not stand or block the train doors to allow for smooth entry and exit of passengers.
- Push or Shove: Avoid pushing or shoving when boarding or alighting from the train to prevent accidents.
- Eat or Drink: Refrain from eating or drinking inside the train to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
- Litter: Do not litter inside the train or station premises to keep the environment clean.
- Loud Conversations: Keep conversations at a low volume to avoid disturbing other passengers.
By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and efficient ride for everyone on the MRT-3.
Video: MRT-3 Southbound Train Ride from North Ave. station to Taft Ave. Station
For a visual guide on navigating the MRT-3, check out this video from WhenInManila. It provides a virtual tour from SM North Station to the very southern tip, Taft Ave., along with some helpful tips and insights on commuting efficiently using the Blue Line.
Summary
The MRT-3 Line is a major part of Manila’s transportation system, offering a faster and more efficient alternative to road travel. With its 13 stations, it serves as a vital link for daily commuters, providing seamless connectivity across the metro. Understanding the MRT-3 system, its stations, and guidelines ensures a smoother and more convenient commuting experience.