Metro Manila, the bustling capital region of the Philippines, has long been notorious for its traffic congestion and the corresponding long travel times. Sadly, commuters who traverse the city daily are all too familiar with the frustrations of spending hours on the road, particularly during rush hours. For instance, traveling from Quezon City to Makati or Bonifacio Global City (BGC) can take over two hours during peak periods—a journey that should ideally take only 30 to 45 minutes. Thankfully, large-scale projects such as the Metro Manila subway are about to change lives for Metro Manila commuters suffering from traffic fatigue. 

Significant Convenience and Wide Accessibility

This daily grind not only drains the energy of the workforce but also hampers economic productivity. A 2019 Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) study estimated that the Philippines loses around ₱3.5 billion daily due to traffic congestion in Metro Manila. The pressing need for a more efficient transportation system has led to the development of the Metro Manila Subway, a large-scale project that aims to transform how people move around the city.

Once completed, the Metro Manila Subway will be the country’s first underground mass transit system. With 17 stations stretching from Valenzuela to Parañaque, it aims to drastically cut travel time around the city. In addition, the subway is designed to handle up to 1.5 million passengers daily, easing the burden on existing transportation networks and providing a faster, more reliable commute.

The Advantages of Living Near the Metro Manila Subway

Living near the Metro Manila Subway offers unparalleled convenience and can greatly enhance the quality of life for residents. Among the most significant benefits is the drastic reduction of commuters’ time spent traveling. According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the subway will cut travel times dramatically, with the journey from Quezon City to Makati or BGC reduced from over two hours to just 30 minutes. As a result, people will now spend less time in traffic. Conversely, they will have more time for personal and professional activities.

Moreover, the value of properties near subway stations is expected to increase thanks to their excellent location. Plus, the proximity to the subway also ensures easy access to Metro Manila’s major business districts, lifestyle hubs, and essential services. This makes daily errands and social activities more convenient. Additionally, reduced transportation costs provide another advantage, as residents can rely on the subway for their daily commutes, saving on fuel, parking fees, and vehicle maintenance.

What Current Real Estate Projects Would Benefit from the Mega Manila Subway?

Consequently, the anticipation for the Metro Manila Subway sparked a surge in real estate developments near the identified stations. Understandably, homebuyers would want to invest in nearby properties before the subway takes off. Buying now at pre-selling rates and while the subway remains under construction ensures a bigger return of investment when the time comes to sell the property.  

Below are some notable real estate projects poised to benefit from the subway’s eventual operations: 

East Valenzuela Station

Isabelle de Valenzuela by New San Jose Builders (₱2.9 million – ₱9.1M million) 

Isabelle de Valenzuela offers a modern and comfortable living environment with easy access to transportation hubs. The project features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units. As a result, Isabelle de Valenzuela is in a prime position to become a must-have property investment in the Northern Metro Manila area. 

Mindanao Avenue/Quirino Highway Stations

SMDC Vine Residences (₱4.4 million – ₱6.3 million)

Located within the sprawling SM Mall Novaliches compound, SMDC Vine Residences provides a dynamic urban living experience. The project offers two-bedroom units in different configurations and is highly ideal for starter families.

North Avenue/Tandang Sora Stations

Vertis North by Alveo (₱5.1 million – ₱25.7 million)

Vertis North is a mixed-use development that combines residential, office, and retail spaces in a vibrant urban hub. The community offers several notable ready-for-occupancy condominiums, including Avida Vita, Avida Sola, and Alveo High Park. In addition, Orean Place from Alveo is nearing its anticipated turnover date. In addition, these projects offer several unit options including studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom configurations, catering to young professionals and growing families.

Quezon Avenue Station

Victoria Towers by New San Jose Builders (₱5 million – ₱11.4 million)

Located in the heart of Quezon City along EDSA, Victoria Towers offers affordable yet stylish living spaces. Available units include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, suitable for urban dwellers and young families. 

East Avenue Station

The Crestmont by DMCI Homes (₱6.4 million – ₱14.5 million)

The Crestmont offers modern living spaces with top-notch amenities, conveniently located near Quezon Avenue Station. The project features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, making it an excellent choice for professionals and families looking for comfort and accessibility in Quezon City. 

Anonas Station 

Amaia Skies Cubao by Amaia Land (₱4.2 million – ₱7.5M million)

Amaia Skies Cubao is an affordable high-rise residential project that offers convenient access to Cubao’s major transport and commercial hubs. It offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, catering to budget-conscious buyers. 

Katipunan Station

Vista 309 Katipunan by Vista Residences (₱5.3 million – ₱7.2 million)

Vista 309 Katipunan offers modern living spaces specifically designed for students and professionals. Thankfully, its location offers proximity to major learning institutions such as Ateneo and UP. Additionally, Vista 309 is also a short walk away from the subway’s Katipunan Station. The project features studio and one-bedroom units, providing a comfortable and convenient lifestyle in the heart of Quezon City.

Ortigas North Station

The Sapphire Bloc by Robinsons Land (₱7.7 million – ₱13.9 million)

Located within the vibrant Ortigas central business district, The Sapphire Bloc offers a mix of residential, office, and retail spaces with a distinct lifestyle experience. Available units include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments.

Shaw Boulevard Station

Vista Shaw by Vista Residences (₱6.8 million – ₱17.4 million)

Vista Shaw combines historical charm with modern conveniences, offering direct access to Shaw Boulevard Station. The project features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, ideal for those seeking urban convenience.

Kalayaan Avenue Station

The Seasons Residences by Federal Land (₱18.8 million – ₱103.5 million)

The Seasons Residences combine Japanese aesthetics with luxury living. Located near BGC’s Kalayaan Avenue Station, Federal Land’s opus consists of four distinct towers. Specifically, the towers offer studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units, catering to high-end clientele.

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) Station

One Uptown Residences by Megaworld (₱11.1 million to ₱23.7 million)

Located in the heart of BGC, One Uptown Residences offers premium living with access to top-notch amenities and commercial establishments. Available units include studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom configurations.

Lawton East Station

Trion Towers by Robinsons Land (₱10.9 million to ₱31.5 million)

Trion Towers offers a unique three-tower residential community in the heart of Bonifacio Global City, near Lawton East Station. The project features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, catering to individuals and families who desire urban living with access to world-class amenities and business hubs.

Buendia Station

The Linear Makati by Filinvest (₱4.7 million – ₱6.9 million) 

The Linear Makati offers a dynamic urban living experience with its strategic location near Buendia Station. This development features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units.  all of which are ideal for professionals who want quick access to Makati’s business district and lifestyle hubs.

NAIA Terminal 3 Station

150 Newport Boulevard by Megaworld (₱7.9 million)

150 Newport Boulevard offers modern and stylish living in the heart of Newport City, directly across from NAIA Terminal 3. The project features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, making it an ideal choice for frequent travelers and those seeking ultimate convenience near the airport.

FTI Station

Arca South by Ayala Land (₱30.5 million – ₱67 million)

Arca South is a large-scale, mixed-use development that offers a complete urban lifestyle. Specifically, the main residential project, Arca South Arbor Lanes features two residential towers: Jade Tower and Olive Tower. The available units include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, suitable for a diverse range of buyers.

Construction and Completion: A Milestone in Philippine Infrastructure

The construction of the Metro Manila Subway is a testament to the Philippines’ commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure. The project broke ground in February 2019, with a projected completion date set for 2027. Meanwhile, the first phase, which includes the construction of the subway’s first three stations and the depot, is currently underway.

This ambitious subway project is being built with the support of the Japanese government through a loan agreement with JICA. In particular, the subway will feature state-of-the-art technology. This includes advanced signaling systems and flood control mechanisms. Consequently, the system is now more resilient against the challenges posed by Metro Manila’s environment.

The Metro Manila Subway is expected to operate 24 trains per hour per direction, significantly reducing travel time between key locations. For example, once operational, the journey from Quezon City to Makati or BGC could be slashed to just 30 minutes—a drastic improvement over current conditions. However, this new line is not just a solution to traffic woes but also a catalyst for economic growth. In fact, the subway hopes to improve access to business hubs and stimulate real estate development in the areas surrounding the stations.

Excited for the Metro Manila Subway? Find Your Nearby Dream Home and Investment with Ohmyhome

The Metro Manila Subway isn’t just a solution to improve the capital’s urban mobility. It’s also a great boost to the real estate market, especially in areas near its stations. With so many exciting developments underway, finding the perfect home has never been more enticing.

Ohmyhome makes this process easier and more convenient. Signing up for an Ohmyhome account gives you access to an extensive property listing that you can tailor to your needs. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or lease, Ohmyhome offers a seamless experience with comprehensive listings, expert advice, and dedicated customer support. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to live in or invest in Metro Manila’s most connected and convenient locations—sign up for a free account today! Soon, you’ll enjoy the hassle-free convenience of buying, selling, and renting property from the comfort of your home.