In this article:

• Trains in the Metro
• Buses in the Metro
• E-Jeeps, Jeepneys, M-Jeeps 
• Tricycles
• PUVs
• Taxis
• Grab
• Rolling Into Gear

Commuting in the Philippines has always been a challenge, and navigating public transportation in Manila is no exception. With more people returning to offices, schools, and daily routines, the metro is busier than ever. From buses and jeepneys to UV Express vans and ride-hailing apps, knowing your options can make a big difference. Check out this updated guide of all of Manila’s commuting options to help you get around the city more smoothly and confidently.

Trains in the Metro

LRT Line 1

First opened in 1984, the LRT-1 is one of the light rapid transit systems that can take you all around Metro Manila. It has a total of 25 operational stations; trains travel from Parañaque to Balintawak, and vice versa.

LRT Line 1 Stations

Below is the list of LRT-1 stations in order from south to north:

• Dr. Santos
• Ninoy Aquino Avenue
• PITX
• MIA Road
• Redemption-Aseana
• Baclaran
• EDSA
• Libertad
• Gil Puyat
• Vito Cruz 
• Quirino Avenue
• Pedro Gil
• United Nations
• Central Terminal
• Carriedo
• Doroteo Jose
• Bambang
• Tayuman
• Blumentritt
• Abad Santos
• R. Papa
• 5th Avenue
• Yamaha Monumento
• Balintawak
• FPJ

Operating Schedule

The LRT Line 1 operates daily, with the first train from Dr. Santos leaving at 4:30 a.m. and the last at 10:30 p.m. Meanwhile, from FPJ to Dr. Santos, the first trip begins at 4:30 a.m. and the last at 10:45 p.m. Depending on upcoming holidays and announcements, these operating hours are subject to change.

Fare Matrix

For a single-journey ticket, see the price breakdown ahead.

Meanwhile, for Beep™ or Stored Value Card (SVC) fares, these are the prices to keep in mind:

LRT Line 2

Previously known as MRT-2, the LRT-2 opened in 2010. Instead of a north-to-south route, this line takes an east-to-west direction. Its 13 stations travel from Antipolo to Recto.

LRT Line 2 Stations

Below are the LRT-2 stations in order from west to east:

• Recto
• Legarda
• Pureza
• V. Mapa
• J. Ruiz
• Gilmore
• Betty Go-Belmonte
• Araneta Center-Cubao
• Anonas
• Katipunan
• Santolan
• Marikina
• Antipolo

Operating Schedule

This line operates daily unless a holiday or another occasion disrupts the regular schedule. The first trip starts at 5:00 a.m. for both end terminals, but the last trains leave at 9:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. for Antipolo and Recto, respectively.

Fare Matrix

Below are the Beep™, SVC, and single-journey ticket prices.

MRT Line 3

The MRT-3 opened in 1999 with a route that runs from north to south along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA). The line has 13 stops, starting at North Avenue and ending at Taft Avenue.

MRT Line 3 Stations

Below are the MRT-3 stations in order from north to south:

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

Operating Schedule

Like the LRT lines, MRT-3 runs daily unless a holiday or announcement shifts its regular operating schedule. The first trip from North Avenue starts at 4:36 a.m., while the trip from Taft Avenue begins at 5:18 a.m. As for the departure of the last trains, they're set at 9:30 p.m. and 10:11 p.m. for North Avenue and Taft Avenue, respectively.

Fare Matrix

The MRT-3 has four types of tickets that you can use: single journey, stored value, and two of the previous variants that grant a 20% discount to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).  To get a stored value or single journey ticket with a discount, you need to present a valid ID at any of the stations. Visit the MRT 3 website for more information. For added convenience, you may now also pay using your GCash Card.

Buses in the Metro

EDSA Carousel

The EDSA Carousel is a fairly new commuter line that operates on a dedicated lane along EDSA. It has multiple stops that run from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) to Monumento, and vice versa. This was established during the height of the pandemic to improve the traffic and commuting issues.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Points

You can board and alight the EDSA Carousel at these stops:

• Monumento
• Bagong Barrio
• Balintawak
• Kaingin Road
• LRT-1 Roosevelt
• MRT-3 North Avenue 
• Nepa Q. Mart
• Main Ave. Cubao
• MRT-3 Santolan 
• MRT-3 Ortigas
• Guadalupe Bridge
• MRT-3 Buendia 
• Ayala Ave. Bus Stop
• Taft Avenue (curbside)
• Roxas Boulevard
• SM Mall of Asia (MOA)
• Macapagal - DFA (curbside)
• Macapagal - City of Dreams (curbside)
• PITX Terminal

Operating Schedule

The EDSA Carousel buses operate daily from 4:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Depending on holidays and other factors, there may be delays or changes in the schedule. 

EDSA Bus Carousel Fare Matrix 2025

As of March 26, 2025, the following fares apply:

EDSA Bus Carousel bus routes are split into southbound (Monumento to PITX) and northbound (PITX to Monumento). The prices range anywhere from ₱15 to ₱75.50. The minimum fare is ₱15 for the first four kilometers and ₱2.65 for every succeeding kilometer.

Point-to-Point (P2P) Bus

The P2P system works like the Grab app: the bus will only pick up and drop off passengers at its starting point and destination. This can be a convenient and speedy way to commute since you don't have to use multiple modes of transportation or stop at several stations, which is a source of numerous delays. Unlike EDSA Carousel, P2P buses also follow a scheduled departure time, so you need to time your commutes accordingly.

Here are some routes that run around Metro Manila you can take note of:

E-Jeeps, Jeepneys, M-Jeeps

E-jeeps, m-jeeps, and traditional jeepneys are affordable, flexible rides perfect for short city trips. Unlike P2P buses, they pick up and drop off passengers anywhere along the route—just wave to ride and say “Para po!” to get off. Fares start at just ₱13 for jeepneys and ₱15 for e-jeeps and m-jeeps. While traditional jeepneys aren’t air-conditioned, their open windows keep things breezy.

Modern e-jeeps and m-jeeps offer a cleaner, more comfortable ride—some even accept cashless payments. Not sure which route to take? Use the Sakay.ph app to plan your trip, check fares, and find nearby jeepneys in real-time.

Tricycles

Tricycles are a go-to for short trips, especially in neighborhoods or places not covered by jeepneys or buses. They don’t follow fixed routes, so you can hop on and go directly to your destination. Just tell the driver where you're headed, and they’ll quote a fare (usually starting around ₱20–₱50, depending on distance and location).

They’re not the fastest or most comfortable option, but they’re super convenient for quick errands or getting to places off the main road.

PUVs

PUVs or Public Utility Vehicles are a popular option if you're commuting longer distances across the city or heading to nearby provinces. Unlike jeepneys that stop anywhere, PUVs like UV Express use fixed routes and designated terminals, which helps make trips faster and more direct. Just head to a terminal, tell the driver your stop, and hop on.

Most UVs are air-conditioned, making them a more comfortable ride, especially during rush hour. Fares typically range from ₱30 to ₱70, depending on the route. Keep small bills or coins ready, as drivers might not have enough change.

Taxis

Taxis are a convenient option if you want a private ride straight to your destination—no stops, no transfers. You can hail one from the street, find them at taxi stands, or book through apps like Grab for added convenience. Most taxis in Metro Manila are metered, with starting rates at around ₱40, and an additional ₱13.50 per kilometer after that.

They’re more expensive than jeepneys or UV Express vans, but they’re great if you’re in a hurry, carrying a lot of luggage, or traveling late at night. Always make sure the driver turns on the meter! 

Grab

Grab is one of the most convenient ways to get around Metro Manila, especially if you prefer a private, app-based ride. Just book through the Grab app, set your pickup and drop-off points, and you’ll get matched with a nearby driver—no need to hail a cab or worry about directions.

Fares are fixed and shown upfront, so there’s no need to negotiate or worry about the meter. It’s more expensive than public transport, but you’re paying for comfort, air-conditioning, door-to-door convenience, and cashless payment options. You can also book GrabCar, GrabTaxi, or GrabShare depending on your budget and preferences.

Grab is especially useful when you’re traveling with luggage, heading to or from the airport, or commuting during off-hours when jeepneys and buses are harder to find. You can also enjoy hassle-free payments by linking your bank account or e-wallet, like GCash, directly in the app.

Rolling Into Gear

Being prepared for the daily grind means having the right essentials to keep your commute on public transportation in Manila smooth and stress-free. That includes getting the right data packages and prepaid promos, so you can stay updated on public transportation news.