In a region where traffic congestion is part of daily life, Metro Manila’s railway system remains a lifeline for millions. Whether you're a daily commuter navigating the city’s chaos or a tourist exploring the capital for the first time, learning how to use the city's growing rail transit system can save you time, money, and stress.

From the legacy of the Philippine National Railways to the futuristic North–South Commuter Railway project, here’s everything you need to know to ride the trains of Metro Manila—today and in the years ahead.

Understanding Metro Manila's Current Rail Network

Metro Manila currently operates three main commuter rail lines: MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2, with the aging PNR still servicing longer-distance trips into the southern suburbs.

Each line serves a unique corridor of the metropolis, with several interchange stations making transfers possible for cross-city travel.

The MRT-3: Your EDSA Express

The MRT-3 is one of the most vital train lines in Metro Manila, running along the infamous Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, better known as EDSA. This elevated line stretches from North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft Avenue in Pasay. It has 13 stations and links key business and shopping districts such as Cubao, Ortigas, Makati, and MOA.

MRT-3 on EDSA

Open from around 4:30 AM to 10:30 PM, the MRT-3 is a go-to option for commuters looking to avoid EDSA’s gridlock. Fares range from ₱13 to ₱28 depending on distance, and the line is fully integrated with the Beep Card system, which allows tap-in/tap-out convenience across other Metro Manila lines.

MRT-3 (Metro Rail Transit Line 3)

Route: North Avenue (Quezon City) to Taft Avenue (Pasay)
Stations: 13 stations along EDSA
Key Stops: North Avenue (SM North EDSA), Cubao, Shaw Blvd., Ayala, Taft
Train Type: Elevated, Light Rail
Fare: ₱13–₱28 depending on distance
Hours: ~4:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Best For: North-South commute along EDSA (bypassing traffic)
Tip: MRT-3 connects with LRT-1 (at Taft–EDSA via walkway) and LRT-2 (via Cubao)

Order a beep Card on Lazada!

The LRT-1: A Ride Through Old and New Manila

The Light Rail Transit Line 1, more commonly called the LRT-1, is the oldest mass transit system in Southeast Asia. Operational since 1984, it runs from Roosevelt Avenue in Quezon City to Baclaran in Pasay City. The route cuts through key parts of Manila, including historical sites, universities, and busy commercial zones.

LRT-1

Stations such as Doroteo Jose, Central Terminal, and UN Avenue provide access to the heart of the city, while the EDSA station connects directly to the MRT-3 via a short walkway. Trains run every few minutes, and like the MRT, Beep Cards are accepted.

As of 2025, construction is ongoing for the LRT-1 South Extension, which will connect Baclaran to Niog in Cavite—a long-awaited expansion that’s expected to partially open by late 2025 or early 2026.

LRT-1 (Light Rail Transit Line 1)

Route: Roosevelt (Balintawak) to Baclaran
Stations: 20 stations
Key Stops: Monumento, Blumentritt, Doroteo Jose (near Recto), EDSA (near MRT Taft), Baclaran
Train Type: Elevated, Light Rail
Fare: ₱15–₱30
Hours: ~4:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Best For: Traveling between northern and southern Manila (Manila–Pasay–Caloocan)
Extension in Progress: LRT-1 South Extension Project (Baclaran to Niog in Cavite) is ongoing and expected to open partially by late 2025 or 2026.

The LRT-2: Linking East and West

LRT-2 is the shortest of the three lines, but arguably one of the most scenic. Stretching from Recto in Manila to Antipolo in Rizal, this east-west route serves the university belt, government buildings, and residential hubs like Marikina and Masinag.

LRT-2

The ride is smooth, relatively less crowded, and features longer trains compared to LRT-1. LRT-2 also intersects with both MRT-3 (via Araneta Center-Cubao) and LRT-1 (via Doroteo Jose and Recto stations). It’s particularly useful for students and professionals commuting from the eastern suburbs into Manila.

LRT-2 (Light Rail Transit Line 2)

Route: Recto (Manila) to Antipolo (Rizal)
Stations: 13 stations
Key Stops: Recto, Legarda, Cubao (connects to MRT), Marikina, Antipolo
Train Type: Elevated and Underground combo
Fare: ₱15–₱30
Hours: ~5:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Best For: East-West routes (Manila to Marikina, Antipolo)
Tip: If you're visiting universities in Manila (e.g., UST, FEU), LRT-2 Recto is your go-to.

The PNR: A Glimpse into the Past—and Future

The Philippine National Railways, or PNR, still operates several diesel-powered trains that travel from Tutuban in Manila to Calamba in Laguna. Though slower and less modern than its light rail counterparts, PNR provides essential connectivity to southern Metro Manila, with stops in Sta. Mesa, Paco, Alabang, and beyond.

PNR

However, the PNR as we know it is slowly being phased out. In its place will rise one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects—the North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR).

PNR (Philippine National Railways)

Route: Tutuban (Manila) to Calamba (Laguna), with stops in Paco, Sta. Mesa, Alabang
Fare: ₱15–₱60 depending on distance
Train Type: At-grade (street-level), older diesel locomotives
Best For: Budget long-distance travel south of Metro Manila
Note: PNR trains are slower and less modern. This line is slated for retirement once the NSCR (North–South Commuter Railway) becomes fully operational.

How to Transfer Between Lines

Metro Manila’s train system isn’t a unified subway like in Tokyo or Singapore—but there are key transfer points that make multi-line commuting possible. For instance, passengers can walk from MRT-3's Taft Avenue station to LRT-1's EDSA station, or switch from MRT-3 to LRT-2 at Cubao via Gateway Mall. LRT-1’s Doroteo Jose station also connects to LRT-2’s Recto station via a footbridge.

An LRT-1 train approaching EDSA via Taft Avenue Station

These connections aren’t always seamless, but they do allow commuters to switch directions without going above ground or taking other vehicles.

Fares and Tickets: What You Need to Know

All three major lines (MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2) now use the Beep Card—a reloadable contactless smart card that lets you tap in and out without lining up for tickets each ride. A card costs ₱50 (reloadable at stations, convenience stores, and online via apps).

Fares range from ₱13 to ₱30 depending on distance traveled. PNR, meanwhile, still uses traditional paper tickets and charges ₱15 to ₱60 based on your destination.

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

Big Changes Are Coming: Future Rail Projects

If you think Metro Manila’s current system is limited, you’re not wrong. But change is on the way, and it’s coming fast.

The North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR)

The NSCR is a game-changing project that will stretch over 147 kilometers—from Clark International Airport in Pampanga, through Metro Manila, down to Calamba in Laguna. The rail will be fully electric, modern, and designed for high-speed travel (up to 160 km/h). The Tutuban to Malolos segment in the north is expected to open by 2026 or 2027, with full operations targeted by 2029.

North–South Commuter Railway

Once complete, this new system will replace the aging PNR and integrate with LRT-1, LRT-2, MRT-3, and the Metro Manila Subway—forming the backbone of a fully connected urban rail network.

The Metro Manila Subway

Dubbed “the country's first real subway,” the Metro Manila Subway (also known as Line 9) will be fully underground and run from North Avenue in Quezon City to the FTI complex (now Arca South) in Taguig, with a spur line leading directly to NAIA Terminal 3. Construction is currently underway, and partial operations are expected by 2027.

Metro Manila Subway Project

This subway will dramatically cut travel time—what would normally be a two-hour journey by car from Quezon City to the airport will take just 35 minutes by train.

Tips for First-Time Commuters and Tourists

For tourists visiting Metro Manila, trains are not only fast but also a great way to see a slice of daily life. However, it’s important to plan ahead:

Avoid peak hours (6–9 AM, 5–8 PM) when possible, as trains can get extremely packed.
Keep your belongings secure in front of you, and use anti-theft bags if possible.
If you're a woman traveling alone, take advantage of the women-only train cars, available during rush hours.
Always bring a Beep Card, and top it up with at least ₱100 to cover round trips and transfers.
Check apps like Sakay.ph or Google Maps Transit to plan your routes in real-time.

Other Commuting Guides in the Philippines

Final Thoughts: A Changing Commute for a Growing Metro

Metro Manila’s train system is far from perfect, but it’s improving—and fast. With the NSCR and Metro Manila Subway on the horizon, commuters will soon have access to a modern, high-speed, and more reliable public transit system that rivals those of other Asian capitals.

In the meantime, navigating the MRT, LRT, and PNR remains a practical and budget-friendly option for both locals and tourists. With some planning, patience, and a Beep Card in hand, you’ll be able to get around the city’s urban sprawl with surprising ease.

As Metro Manila transforms, so will its transport—and in just a few years, hopping from Quezon City to Calamba, or from Makati to Clark Airport, could be as simple as riding one train.

Other Transportation Info in the Philippines

Philippine National Railways

How to Utilize the Metro Manila Railway System (Commuting Guide for Tourists and Locals)