Getting to Makati CBD, Ortigas Center, and BGC via Manila Metro

Metro Manila's economy revolves around three major central business districts: Makati CBD, Ortigas Center, and Bonifacio Global City (BGC). Hundreds of thousands of workers commute to these areas daily, and the rail system is the most reliable way to beat the legendary Manila traffic.

This guide covers the best metro routes to each business district, along with practical last-mile transport options to get you from the station to your office doorstep.

Makati is the Philippines' financial capital, home to the Philippine Stock Exchange, major banks, BPO offices, and multinational headquarters. MRT-3 Ayala Station is the primary rail access point.

- Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue offices: A 5-15 minute walk through the Glorietta/Greenbelt mall complex, which is air-conditioned and covered. Follow signs to your preferred exit.

- Salcedo Village: Exit through Greenbelt and walk east. About 10 minutes on foot.

- Legazpi Village: Exit through the Paseo de Roxas side of Greenbelt. 10-15 minute walk.

- Buendia Station (MRT-3): An alternative for offices along Gil Puyat (Buendia) Avenue and the southern end of Makati CBD.

Tips: The underground Ayala Malls walkway system lets you walk to many Makati offices entirely in air-conditioning. Study the mall maps to find the exit nearest your building.

Ortigas Center is Metro Manila's second-largest business district, housing the Asian Development Bank headquarters, Robinsons offices, and major BPO companies.

- Directly connected to SM Megamall and Robinsons Galleria via covered walkways

- Walk through SM Megamall to reach the ADB Avenue and Emerald Avenue corridors

- Best for offices in the western portion of Ortigas Center

- Better access to Shaw Boulevard offices, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, and the Strata 100 area

- Shorter walk to the eastern portion of Ortigas Center

- Connected to Shangri-La Plaza via a pedestrian bridge

Jeepneys and Shuttles: Several jeepney routes circulate within Ortigas Center. Company shuttle buses also pick up employees from both MRT stations during rush hours.

BGC is Manila's newest and most modern business district, located in Taguig. It hosts major tech companies, embassies, and upscale commercial establishments. BGC does not have its own rail station yet, but it is accessible via the metro with a last-mile connection.

- Take MRT-3 to Ayala Station

- Walk to the BGC Bus stop at the Ayala Terminal (near Glorietta 5)

- BGC Buses run every 5-10 minutes during peak hours and cost PHP 15

- Travel time from Ayala Station to BGC: approximately 15-25 minutes depending on traffic

- Some commuters take MRT-3 to Guadalupe and then a jeepney to BGC via Kalayaan Avenue

- Slightly less convenient but avoids Ayala Station crowds during rush hour

Future: The Metro Manila Subway (MMS) currently under construction will include a BGC station, providing direct rail access. Expected to open in phases starting 2028-2029.

- 7:00 AM or earlier: Arriving at the station before 7 AM significantly reduces your wait time. Trains are less crowded and you may even get a seat.

- Use the correct station entrance: Ayala Station has multiple entry points. The entrance nearest Landmark/SM is often less crowded than the main Glorietta entrance.

- Consider reversing direction: On MRT-3, northbound trains from Taft to North Avenue are less crowded in the morning than southbound trains. Some commuters ride one station north to board a less-crowded southbound train. (Only practical if you live near the end of the line.)

- Flexible work hours: If your company allows it, shifting your commute by just 30 minutes (arriving at 9:30 AM instead of 9:00 AM) can dramatically improve your experience.

- Remote work days: Many Manila companies now offer hybrid work schedules partly to reduce commuter strain. Take advantage of this on days with weather warnings.

Getting from the MRT/LRT station to your office or meeting:

- Walking: Most offices in Makati CBD and Ortigas Center are within a 5-20 minute walk from the nearest station. Use mall walkways for covered, air-conditioned routes.

- BGC Bus: The dedicated bus service connecting Ayala to BGC. Affordable and frequent during business hours.

- Grab (ride-hailing): Book a Grab car or GrabBike for the last mile. GrabBike (Angkas is another option) is often faster and cheaper for short distances.

- Jeepney: Traditional jeepneys serve routes within and around all three business districts. Fares start at PHP 13. Ask the driver if the route passes your destination.

- E-scooter: Some areas in BGC and Makati have dockless e-scooter services. Check availability on the respective apps.

- Company shuttles: Many BPO and corporate offices operate free shuttle services from nearby MRT/LRT stations. Check with your HR department.