Manila Metro Rail Transit System Information
The Metrostar Express or simply know as MRT-3, the Manila Metro Rail Transit System faces a similar dilemma as the LRT. It has characteristics of both, a light rail system as well as a rapid transit system. This 16.9 km long network is the busiest among all the three metro lines in Manila, Philippines. It touched a record daily ridership of 650,000 between the years 2012-20133. It was the second line to be opened before LRT 2, in the year 1999. Running on just 1 line, it serves a total of 13 stations. Although the Metro Rail Transit Corporation are the owners of this metro system, it is operated by the Department of Transport and Communications.
Manila Metro Rail Transit System Lines
Manila Metro Rail Transit Lines and Stations:
The line MRT-3 offers service between North Avenue and Taft Avenue. The line interchanges with MRT-2 network and also get interchanged with the LRT-1 network. It operates at a speed of 60-65 km/hr. The names of the 13 stations it serves along its route are:
● North Avenue
● Quezon Avenue
● GMA Kamuning
● Cubao
● Santolan-Anapolis
● Ortigas
● Shaw Boulevard
● Boni Avenue
● Guadalupe
● Buendia
● Ayala
● Magallanes
● Taft Avenue
Manila Metro Rail Transit System Map
Map of Manila Metro Rail Transit System showing various lines and stations.
Manila Metro Rail Transit System Hours
The metro starts operation at 4:30 and runs till 22:30 pm on all days. The frequency of trains however, differ with the days and hours. On weekday mornings between 4:30-6:30 am, the trains arrive every 4.5-7 minutes. The headway during the peak hours (6:30-9:30 am, 16:30-19:30) is 4 minutes. Off-peak hours, the frequency again varies from 4.5-7 minutes, depending on the time.
On Saturdays, the time interval between trains is 5.5 minutes, and on Sundays it is 7.5 minutes.
For more information on the timings and frequency, you can visit the official website at: https://dotcmrt3.gov.ph/about#train-schedule
Manila Metro Rail Transit System Fares
The fares on MRT-3 are distance based. The minimum fare is 10 pesos, and the maximum fare, depending on distance is 15 pesos. The charges are 10 pesos for the first three stations. For 4-5 stations, the fare is 11 pesos, for 6-8 stations fare is 12 pesos, 14 pesos for 9-11 stations and 15 pesos for 12 stations and above.
Riders can purchase Single Journey ticket, the prices of which will vary as per the distance. These tickets are valid on the date of issue. Another option is the stored value ticket/card, which can be purchased for 100 pesos and can be used for multiple journeys. This ticket can be used for three months after the first validation.
Senior citizens and people with disabilities can avail discounts on tickets.
DOTC now plans to introduce automatic fare collection and smart card systems. The group AF Consortium will develop this system for the metro.
For more information on tickets and pricing, visit: http://dotcmrt3.gov.ph/guide.php
Manila Metro Rail Transit System Parking
Some stations in MRT-3 offer park and ride facilities to metro passengers.
Manila Metro Rail Transit System Rules
Smoking, eating and drinking is prohibited inside trains and inside the platform area of all stations. Carrying of inflammable material, explosives and weapons is strictly prohibited. Inspection of baggage is conducted at stations. Riders are also inspected by station security officers, with the help of metal detectors. All stations are equipped with CCTV cameras that provide surveillance at all hours. Transit of pets is not allowed on the metro. Taking pictures inside the platform area is not allowed.