MRT-3 now open one hour later

Metro Manila commuters will soon have more flexibility in their evening travel as the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) extends its weekday operating hours by an additional hour starting Monday, 24 March 2025.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) made the announcement on Monday, confirming that the adjustment aims to improve commuter convenience and reduce congestion during peak hours.

According to the updated schedule, the last southbound train from North Avenue station will now depart at 10:25 PM, while the final northbound trip from Taft Avenue station will leave at 11:04 PM. The first trains will continue to operate as usual, departing North Avenue station at 4:30 AM and Taft Avenue station at 5:05 AM.

To further enhance service efficiency, the MRT-3 will also deploy additional trains during peak hours, ensuring faster travel times and easing commuter flow along the 16.9-kilometer rail line that spans 13 stations from Quezon City to Pasay City.

The decision to extend MRT-3's operating hours follows DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon’s directive after his inspection of key stations — including Taft, Ayala, and Shaw Boulevard— on 17 March. During the inspection, Dizon reiterated the agency’s commitment to improving the daily commuting experience by maximizing the rail system’s operational capacity.

“Extending operating hours by even just an hour can significantly help in reducing long lines and improving travel efficiency,” he said, emphasizing that the agency wants to “make the commuting public’s lives easier.”