The SM North EDSA Transport Terminal is one of Metro Manila's largest and most comprehensive transportation hubs, strategically located alongside the massive SM City North EDSA mall complex. It serves as a vital interchange for commuters traveling within Quezon City, to other parts of Metro Manila, and even to nearby provinces. Understanding its layout and services is key to a seamless journey.
Terminal Overview
The SM North EDSA Transport Terminal is an expansive facility designed to integrate various modes of public transportation. It's often referred to interchangeably with the wider transport infrastructure surrounding the mall, including the MRT-3 North Avenue Station and the EDSA Carousel bus stops. The terminal aims to provide a convenient and organized space for commuters, alleviating congestion on surrounding roads.
Location: Directly connected to SM City North EDSA, accessible from North Avenue and EDSA.
Purpose: To serve as a consolidated point for buses, jeepneys, UV Express vans, and P2P (Point-to-Point) buses, offering a wide range of routes.
Key Features: Organized bays for different vehicle types, waiting areas, and direct access to the mall for amenities. The new SM North EDSA Busway Concourse has also significantly enhanced connectivity to the EDSA Carousel.
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Modes of Transport and Routes
The terminal services a diverse array of public utility vehicles (PUVs), connecting passengers to numerous destinations.
1. EDSA Carousel Busway Concourse
This newly opened concourse (as of March 2025) directly links SM City North EDSA to the EDSA Carousel bus line. It provides improved, comfortable, and protected access to the dedicated bus lanes along EDSA.
Routes: The EDSA Carousel operates along the entire length of EDSA, connecting Monumento in Caloocan to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) in Parañaque, with numerous stops in between (including Cubao, Ortigas, Ayala, Taft Avenue, etc.). This is ideal for fast travel along EDSA.
2. City Buses
Traditional city buses connect SM North EDSA to various parts of Metro Manila.
Common Routes (examples, subject to change):
- Southbound along EDSA: Towards Cubao, Ortigas, Ayala, Pasay, Alabang, etc.
- Commonwealth Avenue Routes: Connecting to areas like Fairview, Litex, San Jose del Monte, etc.
- Other City Destinations: Routes to Divisoria, Quiapo, Baclaran, Market! Market!, BGC (often via P2P).
- Terminals/Stops: Look for designated loading bays within the terminal complex for specific bus routes.
3. Provincial Buses
Buses that connect Metro Manila (via SM North EDSA) to provinces primarily in Central and Northern Luzon.
Common Destinations: Provinces in Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Bataan, Zambales, Pangasinan, Baguio, etc.
Note: Not all provincial bus lines operate from this specific terminal. Some may have their own terminals in nearby areas or require transfer at other major hubs like PITX or Araneta City Bus Port.
4. UV Express Vans (Utility Vehicle Express)
Air-conditioned vans that offer faster, point-to-point services, often with fixed routes and fares. They are popular for commuters who prefer a quicker ride.
Common Routes (examples, subject to change):
- Various subdivisions and towns in Quezon City (e.g., Novaliches, Fairview, Mindanao Ave. areas).
- Parts of Bulacan and Rizal (e.g., Santa Maria, Pandi, Montalban).
- Routes to other parts of Metro Manila like Technohub, Ayala, Eton Centris, etc.
5. Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJs)
The iconic Philippine jeepneys offer local routes within Quezon City and immediate neighboring areas.
Common Routes (examples, subject to change):
- Routes along Mindanao Avenue, Congressional Avenue.
- Towards Project 6, Project 8, Pag-asa.
- Connections to specific barangays in Quezon City.
6. P2P (Point-to-Point) Buses
Modern, air-conditioned buses offering non-stop, direct services between specific points, often with more comfortable seating and fixed schedules.
Common Routes (examples, subject to change):
- SM North EDSA to Glorietta/Greenbelt (Ayala Center Makati).
- SM North EDSA to SM Megamall (Ortigas Center).
- SM North EDSA to BGC (Bonifacio Global City).
- Routes to Clark International Airport or other major regional hubs.
Ticketing: P2P services usually require separate ticketing at designated booths or online.
Facilities and Amenities
Being part of the SM City North EDSA complex, the transport terminal benefits from direct access to extensive amenities:
Restrooms: Available within the mall.
Food and Beverages: Countless dining options, from fast food to restaurants, within SM North EDSA.
Retail: All the shopping conveniences of a major mall.
ATMs/Banks: Located throughout the mall.
Customer Service: Mall and terminal staff can assist with inquiries.
Waiting Areas: Designated waiting areas are available within the terminal and the connected concourses.
Operating Hours and Schedule of Trips
Here's a breakdown of what you can generally expect:
1. EDSA Carousel Busway Concourse (SM North EDSA Busway Station):
- The EDSA Carousel operates 24/7. This means the main bus rapid transit (BRT) line along EDSA is always running.
- The SM North EDSA Busway Concourse itself is designed to provide continuous access to this service. Therefore, while the mall itself has operating hours, the concourse specifically for the EDSA Carousel is accessible whenever the EDSA Carousel is running.
- However, while the system operates 24/7, the frequency of buses may vary, especially during off-peak hours (late night to early morning). Most buses operate from around 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM, but some do run throughout the night.
2. P2P (Point-to-Point) Buses:
- P2P bus services usually have fixed schedules that can vary by route. For example, a P2P bus from SM North EDSA to Plaridel might run from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM.
- It's best to check the specific P2P bus operator's website or app (e.g., P2P Bus PH) for the most accurate and up-to-date schedules for your desired route.
3. UV Express Vans:
- UV Express services generally operate from around 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM (22:00) daily.
- Like P2P buses, their schedules can be route-dependent and may have slightly reduced frequency during off-peak hours or on holidays.
4. City Buses and Jeepneys:
- City buses that use the regular lanes (not the EDSA Carousel) and jeepneys typically start operations very early, often around 3:00 AM to 4:00 AM, and run until late at night, sometimes as late as 11:00 PM or midnight, depending on the specific route and demand.
- Some routes, especially major ones, might have limited services through the night, but this is less common for local jeepneys.
5. Provincial Buses:
- Provincial bus schedules vary widely by destination and bus company. Some have early morning departures (e.g., 2:00 AM or 3:00 AM) and late-night arrivals. You'd need to consult the specific bus line's schedule.
In summary:
The SM North EDSA Transport Terminal is generally active from very early morning (around 3:00 AM - 4:00 AM) until late at night (around 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM) for most services. The EDSA Carousel Concourse itself is effectively open 24/7 to facilitate access to the EDSA Carousel busway, which also operates continuously.
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Travel Tips for SM North EDSA Transport Terminal
Plan Your Route: Due to the sheer number of options, it's best to have a clear idea of your destination and preferred mode of transport beforehand. Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Moovit for real-time information.
Check Schedules: For P2P and provincial buses, checking schedules in advance (online or at the terminal) is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Beep Card: For MRT-3 and EDSA Carousel, a Beep card is essential for fast and cashless transactions. You can purchase and reload them at MRT-3 North Avenue Station and some bus terminals.
Peak Hours: Expect very heavy crowds and potential queues during weekday rush hours (morning and evening) and weekends, especially for popular routes. Allow ample travel time.
Security: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Security personnel are present.
Inquire: Don't hesitate to ask terminal staff or conductors for directions or information on routes and fares.
The SM North EDSA Transport Terminal is a dynamic and ever-evolving part of Metro Manila's public transportation network. With its wide range of services, it remains a crucial interchange for millions of commuters daily.
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