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Showing posts with label MRT3. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MRT3. Show all posts

Commuters on Metro Manila's busiest railway can now experience a faster, more convenient way to travel. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) today officially launched cashless payment options for the MRT-3, marking a significant upgrade in the urban transit system and positioning it as a pioneer in seamless payment technology.



DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon led the unveiling at the MRT-3 Ayala Station, personally demonstrating the ease of the new system. He highlighted that commuters can now simply tap their debit or credit cards directly at the gates or, for e-wallet users, generate a QR code from their mobile apps for scanning.


"There is no additional fare here," Secretary Dizon assured commuters. "The system is, whatever is deducted from your GCash, your credit card, your debit card, it is the same as if you bought a single journey ticket."


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This innovative payment setup is touted by the transport chief as the first of its kind globally, capable of accepting both Near Field Communication (NFC) taps and QR codes from a single terminal. The DOTr also announced plans to extend these same cashless options to LRT-1 and LRT-2 lines in the near future, with the support of GCash and RCBC.



How to Use GCash at MRT-3 Gates

For the millions of Filipinos who rely on e-wallets, paying for their MRT-3 ride using the GCash app is now remarkably straightforward:

STEP 1 - Open your GCash app: Ensure you have the latest version installed on your smartphone.


STEP 2 - Look for "Commute" and tap it: This dedicated icon simplifies access to the QR ticketing feature.

STEP 3 - A QR Code will appear: This unique code is your digital ticket.

STEP 4 - Tap or scan your QR Code at an MRT-3 entry gate: Simply present your phone screen with the QR code to the designated scanner.


STEP 5 - The gate will open: Proceed through the turnstile.

STEP 6 - Do the same at the exit gate: The process is identical for exiting the station, ensuring your fare is correctly calculated.


Important Note: Your GCash account must have a minimum balance of ₱28 to successfully use the Commute QR code feature. For added convenience, users can also download a copy of their Commute QR for subsequent gate uses.


Wide Range of Participating Banks

Beyond GCash, the DOTr confirmed a broad list of banks supporting the MRT-3's new cashless payment method, offering flexibility for cardholders:



  • GCash: Visa (Debit), QR Code
  • Landbank: Mastercard (Debit/Credit), Visa (Debit)
  • BPI: Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • BDO: Mastercard (Credit), Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • HSBC: Visa (Debit)
  • GOTyme: Visa (Debit)
  • Union Bank: Visa (Debit)
  • RCBC: Mastercard (Debit/Credit), Visa (Debit)
  • Metrobank: Mastercard (Credit)
  • Security Bank: Mastercard (Credit)
  • Maya: Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • Chinabank: Mastercard (Credit)


This expansion of payment options is expected to significantly reduce queuing times, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall commuting experience for MRT-3 passengers, ushering in a new era of modern urban transportation in the Philippines.

You Can Now Pay For Your MRT-3 Ride Using Your GCash App!


Ayala MRT Station, situated in the heart of Makati's Central Business District (CBD), is a pivotal node in Metro Manila's transportation network. As one of the busiest stations on the MRT Line 3 (MRT-3), it serves as a gateway to major commercial, financial, and cultural landmarks.



Location & Overview

MRT Line 3 at Ayala Station

Address: EDSA, San Lorenzo & Dasmariñas, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines

Line: MRT-3 (Metro Rail Transit Line 3)

Station Code: AY

Structure: Concourse level is elevated; platform level is underground

Platforms: 2 side platforms

Tracks: 2

Opened: July 20, 2000

Operator: Department of Transportation

Ownership: Metro Rail Transit Corporation

MRT-3 Stations Map

Ayala Station is uniquely designed with an elevated concourse and underground platforms, a feature it shares only with Buendia Station on the MRT-3 line. It is strategically located near Ayala Center and Ayala Avenue, hence its name.

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Routes & Connectivity

Ayala Station is the 11th station southbound to Taft Avenue and the 3rd station northbound to North Avenue on the MRT-3 line.

Stairs to the entry/exit platform

It is one of six stations on the line where passengers can transfer to the opposite direction without paying a new fare, thanks to its layout.



Transportation Links

Ayala Station serves as a major transportation hub with various options:

Left to Right: McKinley Exchange Corporate Center, Ayala Station, One Ayala

Buses
  • EDSA Carousel buses are accessible via One Ayala.
  • Point-to-point (P2P) buses are available at One Ayala, The Landmark, Greenbelt, and Legazpi Village. 

Jeepneys
  • Routes to Makati CBD, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Pateros, and Pasay are accessible from McKinley Road, One Ayala, or The Landmark.


UV Express
  • Services to Metro Manila and nearby provinces are available at One Ayala.

BGC Bus
  • The terminal at McKinley Exchange Corporate Center offers buses to various destinations in BGC.

Taxis
  • Available at McKinley Exchange Corporate Center, SM Makati, Glorietta 4, and The Landmark.

Bicycle Sharing
  • Moovr provides bicycle-sharing services with a rental hub at the southbound entrance of Ayala Station.


Operating Hours

The station operates daily with the following schedules:

Weekdays:

  • First train: 4:36 AM (North Avenue Station), 5:18 AM (Taft Avenue Station)

  • Last train: 9:30 PM (North Avenue Station), 10:11 PM (Taft Avenue Station)


Saturdays:

  • First train: 4:37 AM (North Avenue Station), 5:18 AM (Taft Avenue Station)

  • Last train: 9:30 PM (North Avenue Station), 10:08 PM (Taft Avenue Station)

Sundays/Holidays:

  • First train: 4:38 AM (North Avenue Station), 5:19 AM (Taft Avenue Station)

  • Last train: 9:30 PM (North Avenue Station), 10:09 PM (Taft Avenue Station)

Access to One Ayala

Nearby Landmarks & Attractions

Ayala Station offers direct access to several key destinations:

Shopping Centers:


Business & Financial Institutions:

  • Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
  • China Bank
  • HSBC Philippines
  • Citibank Philippines
  • Standard Chartered Bank Philippines

Hotels:

  • Ascott Makati
  • Holiday Inn & Suites Makati
  • Fairmont Makati/Raffles Makati
  • Makati Shangri-La Hotel
  • The Peninsula Manila
  • Dusit Thani Manila
  • Crown Regency Hotel
  • Hotel Celeste
  • Jinjiang Inn Makati
  • Astoria Greenbelt
  • Makati Diamond Hotel
  • New World Makati Hotel

Cultural & Educational Sites:





Directions from Ayala Station

From Ayala Station, commuters can easily reach various destinations:

  • Ayala Triangle Gardens: Approximately 1.4 km away; accessible via a 17-minute walk, a 4-minute bus ride costing ₱14–22, or a 2-minute taxi ride costing ₱65–80. 

  • Bonifacio Global City (BGC): Accessible via BGC Bus from the terminal at McKinley Exchange Corporate Center.

  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA): Reachable by taking the MRT-3 southbound to Taft Avenue Station, then transferring to a bus or taxi heading to NAIA.

Ayala Station entry/exit and ticketing platform

Ayala MRT Station stands as a vital hub in Metro Manila's transit system, offering seamless connectivity to various parts of the city and serving as a gateway to Makati's bustling commercial and cultural centers.


MRT-3 Stations

Here are the MRT-3 Stations:

  • North Avenue
  • Quezon Avenue
  • GMA Kamuning
  • Araneta Center-Cubao
  • Santolan-Annapolis
  • Ortigas
  • Shaw Boulevard
  • Boni
  • Guadalupe
  • Buendia
  • Ayala
  • Magallanes
  • Taft Avenue





MRT-3 Ayala Station Guide: Location, Schedule, Nearby Landmarks and Destinations


If you're navigating Metro Manila, the MRT-3 or Metro Rail Transit Line 3 is one of the most essential mass transportation systems to understand and utilize. Whether you're a local commuter or a first-time tourist, this in-depth guide will walk you through everything you need to know about MRT-3 — its history, stations, destinations, fares, and travel hacks.



What is MRT-3?

The Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) or Yellow Line is a light rail transit system that runs along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) — the main circumferential highway of Metro Manila. It serves as a vital artery for the daily commute of millions of Filipinos and provides access to commercial centers, business hubs, and residential districts.

MRT-3 on EDSA

The majority of the rail line is elevated, constructed either directly above or beside EDSA. However, between Buendia and Ayala stations in Makati, the tracks briefly descend into underground tunnels — the only subterranean section of the entire line.

Buendia Station with center island

MRT-3 History and Background


Inception: MRT-3 was conceptualized in the 1980s to decongest traffic on EDSA.

Construction Start: The construction began in 1996 and the system was officially inaugurated in December 1999.

Operation: Initially operated by a private consortium, Metro Rail Transit Corporation (MRTC), and now under the Department of Transportation (DOTr) with significant rehabilitation projects since 2019.

Rehabilitation: In 2022, major upgrades were completed with assistance from Japan’s Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, improving speed, efficiency, and comfort.

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MRT-3 Line Map and Stations

The MRT-3 line runs along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), stretching from North Avenue in Quezon City down to the EDSA-Taft Avenue intersection in Pasay City. This creates a semi-orbital route through Metro Manila’s urban core.


The MRT-3 has a total of 13 stations distributed along a 16.9-kilometer (10.5-mile) route, with each station spaced approximately 1.3 kilometers (0.81 miles) apart.

  • The northern terminus is located at North Avenue Station in Barangay Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City.

  • The southern terminus is at Taft Avenue Station in Pasay Rotonda, right at the intersection of EDSA and Taft Avenue.

MRT-3 Stations

Connected Trips and Other Train Lines

Several MRT-3 stations offer interchange connections to other key rail lines in Metro Manila:

  • Magallanes Station is near the PNR's EDSA Station.

  • Araneta Center–Cubao Station has an indirect connection to the LRT-2 Cubao Station via footpaths within the Araneta City complex.

  • Taft Avenue Station connects to LRT-1 EDSA Station via a covered walkway.

MRT-3 Araneta Center–Cubao Station

Future Connections:

  • MRT-7 at North Avenue (upon completion)

  • Metro Manila Subway (planned stations in Ortigas and North Avenue)



Fare System and Payment Options


Fare Matrix (As of 2025):

  • 1-3 Stations - ₱13
  • 4-6 Stations - ₱16
  • 7-9 Stations - ₱20
  • 10-12 Stations - ₱24


Payment Methods:

  • Single Journey Tickets: Available at station booths; valid only on the day of purchase.

  • Stored Value Cards:

    • Beep™ Card (accepted on MRT-3, LRT-1, LRT-2, P2P Buses)

    • Reloadable via ticket booths, convenience stores, and machines.

Visit my LRT and MRT Fare Types Guide to learn more.


How to Ride the MRT-3: A Step-by-Step Guide


STEP 1 Plan Your Route: Use apps like Sakay.ph or Google Maps for real-time routing.

STEP 2 Enter the Station:

  • Show your bag for inspection.

  • Tap your Beep card or purchase a single journey ticket.

STEP 3 Proceed to the Platform: Check if the train is northbound (to North Ave) or southbound (to Taft Ave).


STEP 4 Board the Train:

  • Wait for passengers to disembark.

  • There are designated women-only and PWD-friendly areas.

STEP 5 Exit at Your Station:

  • Tap out with your Beep card.

  • Follow signs to nearby jeepney/bus terminals, malls, or buildings.






Operating Hours


Weekdays (Monday to Friday):

  • North Avenue Station (Southbound):
    • First Trip: 4:30 AM
    • Last Trip: 10:30 PM

  • Taft Avenue Station (Northbound):
    • First Trip: 5:05 AM
    • Last Trip: 11:09 PM

Weekends and Holidays (Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays):

  • North Avenue Station (Southbound):
    • First Trip: 4:30 AM
    • Last Trip: 9:30 PM

  • Taft Avenue Station (Northbound):
    • First Trip: 5:05 AM
    • Last Trip: 10:09 PM

Please note that station entrances typically close five minutes before the last train departs. For example, North Avenue Station's entrance closes at 10:25 PM on weekdays, while Taft Avenue Station's entrance closes at 11:04 PM. 

These extended operating hours were implemented starting March 24, 2025, to accommodate more passengers, especially during evening peak hours. 

Ayala Station entry/exit and ticketing platform

Travel Tips for Locals and Tourists


For Locals:

  • Avoid Rush Hours: 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–8:00 PM are extremely congested.

  • Use Stored Value Cards to save time and avoid long queues.

  • Stay Updated: Follow MRT-3's official social media for service advisories.

Commuters during rush hours

For Tourists:

  • Stay near MRT-accessible hotels in Cubao, Ortigas or Makati for easier travel.

  • Learn basic Filipino phrases like "Bayad po" (Payment please) or "Pwede bang magtanong?" (May I ask?).

  • Keep small bills and coins for tickets and connecting jeep/bus fares.

  • Download Beep™ App to monitor load, transactions, and station maps.

Visit this Guide on How to Commute in Manila to learn more.


Popular Tourist Destinations via MRT-3




Future Developments


MRT-3 Rehabilitation Phase Complete: Smoother rides, improved air conditioning, and faster intervals.

Unified Ticketing System: Expected integration with LRT-1, LRT-2, and future MRT lines via a QR-code based app.

MRT-7 Connection: Anticipated opening in 2025–2026 linking North Avenue to San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.


Final Thoughts: Is Riding the MRT-3 Worth It?

Absolutely — especially if you’re navigating heavy traffic zones in Metro Manila. MRT-3 is fast, affordable, and well-connected. While it may still face occasional glitches, its recent improvements have made it more reliable than ever.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


1. What are the operating hours of the MRT-3?

MRT-3 operates daily, including weekends and holidays.

First Train:

  • From North Avenue: 4:36 AM

  • From Taft Avenue: 5:18 AM

Last Train:

  • From North Avenue: 9:30 PM

  • From Taft Avenue: 10:11 PM


2. How often do MRT-3 trains arrive?

Train frequency varies depending on the time of day and commuter demand. During peak hours, trains may arrive every few minutes, while off-peak intervals are slightly longer. To get real-time updates, check the MRT-3’s official website or social media pages.


3. Are there restrooms in MRT-3 stations?

Yes, most major MRT-3 stations are equipped with public restrooms, though facilities may be more limited in smaller or less busy stations.


4. Is the MRT-3 accessible for persons with disabilities (PWDs)?

Absolutely. MRT-3 stations are designed with accessibility features, including:

  • Ramps and elevators
  • Tactile pathways
  • Braille signs

These features aim to support differently-abled passengers and ensure inclusive mobility.


5. Is there an app or website to find the nearest MRT station?

Yes, you can use the official MRT-3 app or website, which includes a station locator tool. Alternatively, apps like Google Maps or Sakay.ph are also excellent for navigating routes and locating the nearest station.


6. Can I bring my bicycle on the MRT?

Yes, but with some restrictions. Generally:

  • Folding bikes are allowed at all times.

  • Non-folding bikes may be permitted only during off-peak hours.

It’s best to check the latest policy on the official MRT-3 platforms before your trip.


7. How are MRT-3 stations named?

Stations are typically named after the area, road intersection, or a significant landmark nearby. Some may also honor historical figures or events relevant to the location.


8. Who can I contact for more information about MRT-3?

For up-to-date details, guidelines, and service alerts, visit the official MRT-3 website or follow their verified Facebook and Twitter accounts. These platforms provide timely responses and real-time updates.


9. Is there a contactless fare payment option?

Yes! The Beep™ card is a reloadable smart card used across all MRT and LRT lines in Metro Manila. It's a contactless, convenient option valid for up to four years and can be reloaded at station kiosks, select stores, and via partner apps.


If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow travelers and commuters! Planning a trip to Metro Manila? Add the MRT-3 to your itinerary for a true taste of the city's hustle — minus the traffic.



MRT-3 GUIDE: Metro Rail Transit (Stations, Schedule, Fare Matrix)


The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has extended the Metro Rail Transit-3 (MRT-3) free ride for commuters until June 30.

In a public advisory on Wednesday, DOTr Secretary Art Tugade said through the extension, the government aims to let more Filipinos enjoy the much-improved and newly rehabilitated MRT-3 for free.

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“Layon ng DOTr at DOTr MRT-3 Management, na patuloy na makapaghatid ng tulong sa ating mga kababayang patuloy na naaapektuhan ng pagtaas ng mga bilihin at krudo (The DOTr and the DOTr MRT-3 Management aim to continue providing assistance to our fellowmen affected by the increase in prices of basic goods and oil products),” Tugade said.


On March 28, President Rodrigo Duterte launched the free MRT-3 ride in celebration of the significant improvement of the MRT’s services after aggressive rehabilitation and procurement of additional trains.

The free ride, which was originally slated only until May 30, is extended until the last day of the Duterte Administration.

DOTr data on May 24 showed that over 15 million commuters have benefited from the free MRT-3 ride.


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DOTr extends free MRT-3 ride until June 30


The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Metro Rail Transit Line-3 are extending the "Libreng Sakay" program, allowing the commuting public to enjoy the free rides until May 30.


In an announcement Wednesday the DOTr and MRT-3 said the program would "continue helping our commuters ease their financial burden amid inflation and rising fuel prices."

The free ride program – meant to celebrate the completion of the MRT-3’s rehabilitation and ease the burden of rising fuel prices on the public – began on March 28 and was initially set to end on April 30.

To continue providing assistance to the riding public in their commuting needs, the MRT-3 Management and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) have decided to extend for another month the implementation of the FREE RIDE or "LIBRENG SAKAY" program in MRT-3.
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Passengers will be able to continue enjoying free rides at the rehabilitated MRT-3 line until 30 May 2022, anytime between the rail line’s operating hours from 4:40 a.m. and 10:10 p.m.

A total of 7,227,434 passengers as of 26 April 2022 have benefitted from the MRT-3 FREE RIDE program, which was launched on 28 March 2022 and set to initially end by 30 April 2022.


DOTr Secretary Art Tugade said the extension of the FREE RIDE program hopes to continue ease the financial burden of commuters amid inflation and rising fuel prices, especially with more workers returning to on-site work.

"Gumanda at nagbago ang ridership ng MRT-3. Bago mag-pandemya, 260,000. At bagama’t may pandemya, ‘yung ridership ay umaabot sa 280,000. At ngayon, nasa 300,000 na ang naisasakay ng MRT-3 at naihahatid nang ligtas, kumportable, at walang aberya. Napapanahon na i-extend pa natin ang LIBRENG SAKAY sa MRT-3 upang mas maraming Pilipino ang makinabang,” said Secretary Tugade.

According to MRT-3 OIC-General Manager and Director for Operations Michael J. Capati, the increasing ridership of MRT-3 attributed to the implementation of the FREE RIDE and the return of many to on-site work has also allowed the rail line to further test its capacity and performance following the completion of its massive rehabilitation. 

“We saw a definite increase in our ridership when we implemented the FREE RIDE in MRT-3. So it was also productive on our part because we were able to test the capacity and performance of our fully rehabilitated railway system,” said OIC-General Manager Capati.

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MRT-3 recorded an average weekday ridership of 306,986 from 28 March to 26 April 2022, a 26.95% increase from the average weekday ridership of 241,800 from 1 March to 27 March 2022 prior to the implementation of the FREE RIDE program. The highest single-day ridership was recorded on 8 April 2022 when 335,993 passengers took the MRT-3, a 19.4% increase from the record-high 258,989 ridership logged on 25 March before the FREE RIDE program. The MRT-3 records an average weekday ridership of 250,000 to 300,000 prior to the pandemic. 

MRT-3 OIC-General Manager Capati added the extension of the FREE RIDE program will further allow the MRT-3 to test its capacity in accommodating up to or more than 350,000 passengers daily.
To augment the rail line’s capacity, the MRT-3 Management will also continue deploying 4-car CKD train sets on the revenue line during peak hours. A 4-car train set can accommodate up to 1,576 passengers.

Klook.com

The MRT-3 Management and its maintenance provider, Sumitomo-MHI-TESP, completed the rehabilitation of the rail line last December 2021. On 22 March 2022, no less than President Rodrigo Duterte led the inauguration of the fully-rehabilitated MRT-3 at the Shaw Boulevard station in Mandaluyong City.

Following its rehabilitation, the MRT-3 now operates at the speed of up to 60 kph from the previous 25 kph. The number of trains have also increased from as few as 15, now up to 23 operational trains. Meanwhile, the headway or the waiting time between trains has been reduced from around 10 minutes to as low as 3.5 minutes.

Under the MRT-3 rehabilitation project, the entire stretch of the line's mainline tracks was replaced and rehabilitated. Also upgraded were the line's power supply, overhead catenary system, rolling stock, communications and signaling system, stations, as well as depot facilities and equipment.


MRT-3 'Libreng Sakay' program extended until May 30


Better maintenance allows MRT-3 to field more trains.

In a span of only five days, the MRT-3 has once again broken its record on the most number of train sets fielded on its mainline in history.

This, after the rail line fielded a total of 22 train sets for the first time in history tonight, 21 September.

It can be recalled that MRT-3 was able to field 21 trainsets on 16 September.

“The increase of running train sets is a main priority of the DOTr and MRT-3 to give our passengers the best and most efficient service they can experience. This is also a testament of Secretary Arthur Tugade’s genuine commitment to provide high-quality service for the riding public,” MRT-3 Director for Operations Michael J. Capati said.
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The MRT-3 managed to deploy 22 train sets as a result of better maintenance of light rail vehicles (LRVs) and new rails being installed along its mainline.

“The passengers can expect better MRT-3 experience once the massive rehabilitation is finished in July 2021z New rails are being installed as part of the rail rehabilitation project and LRVs are being overhauled which can be added to the mainline,” Director Capati added.

No unloading incident was recorded in the past three months or since the resumption of public transportation on 01 June 2020 under the General Community Quarantine (GCQ), and while on limited capacity. The last unloading incident prior to the enforcement of community quarantines was recorded on 8 March 2020.

Further, from 1 January to 15 March 2020, or right before ECQ was implemented, MRT-3 only recorded a total of 4 unloading incidents, compared to 97, 133, 102, and 43 unloading incidents for the same period from 2015 to 2018.

This is a timely boost for the MRT-3 as the public demands higher number of public transportation in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With this, the MRT-3 can lessen the waiting time interval between trains and increase the rail line’s passenger capacity.



Health and safety protocols are being strictly enforced inside the train such as observing 1-meter physical distancing, wearing of face shield and face mask, no eating, no talking and answering of calls on any digital device.

Via DOTr

First-time in history: MRT-3 fields 22 train sets on its mainline

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