The Manila Light Rail Transit System Line 1 (LRT-1 also known as the Yellow Line) has been a transformative force in Metro Manila’s public transportation since its launch in 1984. Stretching over 20.7 kilometers and covering 20 stations, this elevated railway line seamlessly connects the urban hubs of Pasay, Manila, Caloocan, and Quezon City. Known for its efficiency, LRT-1 serves as a convenient travel option for daily commuters and tourists exploring the city’s landmarks. Let’s delve into the full details of each station, schedules, accessibility options, and upcoming expansions.
Update: LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project Phase 1
On November 16, the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) unveiled the initial phase of the eagerly awaited LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project. The expansion stretches from Baclaran in Pasay City to Dr. Santos (formerly Sucat) in Parañaque, adding five fresh stops: Redemptorist-ASEANA, MIA Road, PITX, Ninoy Aquino Avenue, and Dr. Santos. Ultimately, this extension sets the stage for a broader LRT-1 network with 28 stations, promising to serve up to 800,000 commuters daily and extending coverage to Bacoor, Cavite, the project promises greater connectivity, business opportunities, and a more convenient alternative to traffic.
Understanding the LRT-1 Stations Route
Updated LRT-1 Station Guide: Including New Stations
Here’s an enhanced and updated guide, now incorporating the five new stations from the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project Phase 1.
Baclaran Station
- Location: Southern terminus in Pasay.
- Nearby Landmarks: Baclaran Church, Baclaran Market, various commercial establishments.
- Useful Tips: As the busiest station, Baclaran experiences heavy passenger traffic, especially on Mondays and during church activities. Avoid peak hours if possible.
Redemptorist-ASEANA Station (New)
- Location: ASEANA City, Parañaque.
- Nearby Landmarks: City of Dreams, ASEANA City, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay.
- Traveler Tips: Perfect for exploring entertainment hubs and upscale retail destinations. Ideal for tourists visiting nearby resorts and casinos.
MIA Road Station (New)
- Location: Near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) terminals.
- Nearby Landmarks: NAIA Terminals 1 and 2, and local hotels like Okada Manila.
- Airport Tips: Convenient for air travelers. Check schedules to ensure seamless airport transfers.
PITX Station (Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange) (New)
- Location: PITX hub, Parañaque.
- Nearby Landmarks: PITX bus terminal, SM Mall of Asia, and Solaire Resort.
- Commuter Advice: A vital stop for connecting to provincial buses heading to Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas. Great for long-distance travelers.
Ninoy Aquino Avenue Station (New)
- Location: Parallel to Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Parañaque.
- Nearby Landmarks: Duty-Free Philippines, residential areas, and corporate buildings.
- Recommendation: Excellent for those residing or working in Parañaque’s business districts.
Dr. Santos Station (New)
- Location: Dr. A. Santos Avenue, Parañaque.
- Nearby Landmarks: SM City Sucat, residential subdivisions, and commercial strips.
- Local Tips: A convenient hub for shopping and errands, catering to locals and visitors alike.
EDSA Station
- Landmarks and Accessibility: Close to the SM Mall of Asia, transport terminals, and Pasay Rotonda. Ideal for connecting with buses going to Cavite and Batangas.
- Commuting Insights: Perfect for shopping and business district access.
Libertad Station
- Highlights: Proximity to Pasay Public Market and Cartimar Shopping Center.
- Commuter Advice: Known for its bustling local commerce, Libertad is also convenient for pet enthusiasts visiting Cartimar.
Gil Puyat Station
- Nearby Attractions: Various government offices, bus terminals heading to provincial destinations.
- Practical Tip: A strategic stop for intercity and provincial commuters.
Vito Cruz Station
- Cultural Points: Close to De La Salle University, Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), and Rizal Memorial Stadium.
- Recommendation: Perfect for exploring cultural events and university surroundings.
Quirino Station
- Attractions: Manila Zoo and Rizal Memorial Sports Complex are nearby.
- Family Tips: Consider weekday visits for a quieter zoo experience.
Pedro Gil Station
- Convenience: Direct access to Robinsons Place Manila and nearby hospitals.
- Shopping Insight: Popular for retail and medical access.
United Nations (UN) Avenue Station
- Landmarks: Rizal Park, Manila Ocean Park, National Museum.
- Historical Significance: A gateway to Manila’s historic and cultural sites.
Central Terminal Station
- City Access: Manila City Hall, Mehan Garden, and National Museum Complex are within walking distance.
- Transit Hub: Central for LRT-2 transfers and additional public transport links.
Carriedo Station
- Historical Attractions: Gateway to Quiapo, Binondo (Manila’s Chinatown), and the Basilica of the Black Nazarene.
- Market Tip: Excellent for bargain hunting in Manila’s vibrant markets.
Doroteo Jose Station
- Connectivity: Links to LRT-2 Recto Station, making it a crucial interchange for east-west travel.
- Navigation Advice: Be cautious of congestion during transfer times.
Bambang Station
- Local Specialty: Noted for medical supply stores and proximity to hospitals like Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center.
- Health Tip: Useful for medical errands and healthcare services.
Tayuman Station
- Nearby: North Manila Cemetery and a variety of local retail areas.
- Historical Interest: Ideal for visitors exploring historical cemeteries and older Manila neighborhoods.
Blumentritt Station
- Highlights: Access to Blumentritt Market and the Manila Chinese Cemetery.
- Commuter Tip: Known for affordable goods and a bustling local scene.
Abad Santos Station
- Local Flavor: Surrounded by markets and traditional Filipino dining spots.
- Foodie Advice: Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
R. Papa Station
- Community Vibes: Residential areas dominate this station’s surroundings.
- Quiet Stop: One of the less crowded stations, providing a calmer travel experience.
5th Avenue Station
- Monumento Access: Close to Monumento Circle, a major landmark dedicated to Andrés Bonifacio.
- Navigation Tip: A major intersection for northern Manila routes.
Monumento Station
- Caloocan Hub: Access to shopping centers and historical landmarks.
- Heritage Insight: Offers rich cultural connections and local history.
Balintawak Station
- Markets and Malls: Near Balintawak Market and various shopping outlets.
- Food Market Tip: A favorite for those shopping for fresh produce and wholesale goods.
Roosevelt Station
- Residential Area: Located in Quezon City, with nearby malls and residential zones.
- Shopping and Leisure: Convenient for family activities and leisure.
This updated guide now includes all existing and new stations, ensuring both current and future riders are well-informed about the LRT-1 system.
Practical Information: Schedules, Fares, and Payment Methods
- Operating Hours: The LRT-1 operates daily from 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM, but times may vary depending on holidays or maintenance activities.
- Fares: Pricing is distance-based, with a minimum fare of Php15. Beep cards provide a cashless experience and can be topped up at any station.
- Discounts: Students, older citizens, and persons with disabilities are eligible for fare concessions. Valid IDs are required.
Check out the updated fares
Despite the extension, fares remain steady. Base fare of Php 13.29, plus Php 1.21 per kilometer. Traveling end-to-end. Expect to pay Php 45 for a single journey or Php 43 with a stored val
LRT-1 schedule, now with five brand-new stations
Operating hours stay consistent: Monday to Friday, trains start at 4:30 a.m. and run until 10:15 p.m. On weekends and holidays, service begins at 5 a.m. and wraps up by 9:45 p.m.
Safety and Commuting Tips
- Security Measures: The LRT-1 prioritizes passenger safety with baggage checks, security personnel, and surveillance cameras at each station.
- Peak Hours: Expect heavy foot traffic from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. For a smoother journey, travel during off-peak times.
- Emergency Procedures: Follow staff instructions and exit protocols in case of emergencies. Pay attention to the announcements and posted safety guidelines.
Future Developments: LRT-1 Extension
The LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project aims to extend the line by 11.7 kilometers, adding eight new stations. This project will benefit residents of Cavite and decongest Metro Manila traffic. The first phase is expected to significantly reduce travel time from Baclaran to Bacoor, making it a major upgrade for daily commuters.
The Manila LRT-1 is more than just a transit line; it’s a journey through the city’s evolving landscape, connecting people to heritage sites, business districts, and local markets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned commuter, this guide will help you make the most of your LRT-1 experience.