Commuting in Metro Manila, especially during peak or rush hour, is no joke.
Aside from the frustratingly slow traffic, delays in public transportation would likely cause you even more stress. Since most of us are currently in the mood for revenge travel, you might want to check out these helpful tips and surprising hacks when commuting to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
A friendly reminder to always check the updated fare price and transport schedules of public utility vehicles as these constantly change.
Metered Taxi Ride Hack at NAIA Terminal 3
Struggling to book a Grab car? Head up to the third floor of Terminal 3’s departure area and exit at Gate 6. If you are in the baggage claim area on the ground floor, you can take the exit until you reach the escalators going there. Take note that this gate is located the farthest away from any other departure entry or exit points.
When you’re there, cross the street and get to the second road, you will notice that there are white taxis dropping off passengers. Most of these taxis are available, but it is recommended to insist on using the meter instead of agreeing to a fixed amount to avoid paying an excessively high fare rate.
Commuters’ Route Via P2P Bus
If riding a taxi is not your option, here’s a tipid tip for you! Head on to Bay 10 of NAIA Terminal 3, where you can see P2P buses waiting across the road.
You can take UBE Express if you’re traveling to Araneta Center, Ortigas, Alabang, and Sta. Rosa. If you want to get to MRT-3 Taft Station (which is located behind McDonald's), you can take one of the HM Transport buses. Fare prices range between P40-P200, depending on your destination.
Cubao Commuters Tipid Hack
As we all know, Cubao is one of the busiest areas in the metro, as it is considered the commercial heart of Quezon City. The district is overshadowed by large malls, traditional shopping centers, and entertainment venues. This is one of the major reasons why commuting in or around Cubao is challenging.
If you are traveling to NAIA from Cubao (pickup point in Araneta City), here is a tipid hack for you! Make sure to arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes before your travel schedule. Travel time may take about one and a half hours.
You may book your bus ticket in advance via the UBE Express website. Fare tickets range from P200-P210 depending on your mode of payment (PayPal or PayMaya). You could save between P100 and P180, given that cab rides from Cubao to NAIA Terminal 3 normally cost between P300 and P380.
No Queuing Entry Spot to NAIA Terminal 3
If you think waiting in line when going inside NAIA terminal is a waste of time, then this hack is for you.
You may drop off at Runway Manila or the bridge that connects Newport Mall to NAIA Terminal 3. The same processes apply when you opt to pass through this area, except there are no long lines. It is accessible via electric vehicles inside the terminal or a walk for roughly five minutes. You will pass through the food hall to reach Terminal 3.
Bonus: Budget-friendly Capsule Hotel in NAIA
For commuters who arrived earlier than their scheduled flight, you don’t need to sleep on the metal seats around the airport. Now, you can rent a capsule hotel in NAIA for only P1,000.
The Wings Transit Lounge offers 24-hour facilities with multiple lounge areas and separate capsule rooms for men and women. Each room has a designated shoe rack where you can leave your shoes safely outside.
The hotel provides slippers, a towel, a blanket, a pillow, and a hygiene kit, and each room has individual lights, sockets, a safety vault, and blinds for privacy. The shower, powder, and comfort rooms are well-maintained and are available for sharing. You can also enjoy free goodies in the hotel’s dedicated dining area, as well as a high-chaired working table.
