Overview
- Ortigas district offers diverse attractions, from shopping malls to parks, suitable for everyone’s interests and preferences.
- Public transportation, such as jeepneys, buses, ride-sharing apps, and taxis are convenient way to navigate within Ortigas.
- To travel outside Ortigas, options include MRT/LRT connections, point-to-point buses, airport shuttles, and provincial buses, providing easy access to other parts of Metro Manila.
Ortigas is a bustling district with a lot to offer. From shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues, to parks, museums, and historical sites, there is something for everyone to enjoy and explore.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with friends, a delicious meal with family, or a peaceful stroll in nature, this district has it all. That’s why, if you want to explore more of what Ortigas has to offer, you must master all the ins and outs of the district.
If you are new or unfamiliar with the area, fret not, because this article will serve as a transportation guide for Ortigas dwellers so you can enjoy, have fun, and navigate the district with ease.
How to Get Around Ortigas
Getting around Ortigas is very straightforward because of many transportation options that are available. Here are some different modes of transportation you can try, and choose what suits your travel needs best:
Public Transportation
Public transportation is the most convenient and efficient way to get around Ortigas. Whether you’re heading to work, shopping at the malls, or exploring the various attractions in the area, these vehicles are everything, ready to bring you where you need to be.
- Jeepneys: These vehicles are a mainstay of public transportation in the Philippines and follow specific routes. They are also the most affordable way to travel short distances within the district.
- Buses: While Ortigas Center itself doesn’t have a dedicated bus station, several bus routes pass through the area, making them a convenient option for getting around and beyond.
- Ride-sharing apps: Some of the popular examples are Grab and Joyride, while there are also less popular ones like InDrive and Angkas. These apps connect you with drivers using their vehicles, where you can book a ride anytime and anywhere.
Other Alternative Modes
Aside from the usual jeepneys and buses that are a staple in the metro, Ortigas also offers more modes of transportation. These are more suited for health-conscious individuals, budget-minded commuters, and eco-friendly adventurers. Check them out:
- Biking: Origas has increasingly become a haven for cyclists, with its relatively flat terrain and growing network of dedicated bike lanes, which makes it easier to get around on two wheels.
- Walking: Ortigas’ compact layout and pedestrian-friendly areas make walking a viable and enjoyable option for getting around. Just remember to always follow the traffic signals and crosswalks to make your walk safer and hassle-free.
How to Travel Outside Ortigas
Now that you know how to get around Ortigas and have settled in, you might also want to explore other parts of Metro Manila. Here are different ways you can do it:
MRT/LRT
The MRT-3 line, which runs along EDSA, has a station conveniently located in Ortigas. The Ortigas Station is situated between the Shaw Boulevard and Santolan-Annapolis stations, making it easily accessible for commuters in the area.
Moreover, while the LRT-2 does not have a station within Ortigas itself, it can be easily accessed via the MRT-3 by transferring to the Cubao Station. The LRT-2 runs from Santolan in the east to Recto in the west, passing through important areas like Anonas, Katipunan, and Legarda.
Point-to-Point Buses
Unlike regular buses with multiple stops, point-to-point (P2P) buses operate on dedicated routes, making only designated stops at designated stations. This makes your travel time shorter and faster.
Several P2P bus routes originate or pass through Ortigas, with popular destinations like Makati Central Business District, Bonifacio Global City, Quezon City Memorial Circle, and even NAIA terminals.
Long Distance Travel (airport shuttles, provincial buses)
If you have a flight out, several airport shuttle services operate in Metro Manila. These shuttles pick you up from designated locations in Ortigas and take you directly to your chosen airport terminal.
On the other hand, if you want to travel outside Metro Manila but by land, then provincial buses are for you. Several bus companies have terminals or ticketing offices along major roads near Ortigas, particularly EDSA.
Commute and Travel Tips for Ortigas Condo Dwellers
Living in a condominium near Ortigas puts you in the center of all the action, which makes it very convenient. Commuting is also the best and most affordable way to enjoy what the district offers, but it’s important to remember that your safety always comes first.
That’s why, here are some practical tips to help you navigate the busy streets of the metro and make the most of your travel within or even outside Ortigas.
Befriend Walking Routes
If you find the transportation network still confusing, worry not, because many destinations within the center, like malls, restaurants, and offices, are easily accessible on foot.
Stroll at your own pace, soak in the city atmosphere, and get some exercise while you’re at it. Utilize the pedestrian lanes for safety and enjoy the fresh air and surrounding sights.
Beat the Rush Hour
Traffic congestion is an undeniable reality in Metro Manila. The morning rush typically occurs from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, and the evening rush from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
To avoid being eaten alive by the waves of people during this peak rush hour, plan your commutes to leave a bit earlier or later than these times. If your schedule is flexible, try adjusting your work hours to miss the busiest periods, making your commute smoother and more predictable
Plan for MRT/LRT Connections
Though the MRT route is clear and comprehensive, it’s important to plan your travel, especially if you are going to transfer from more than one one station that is outside the MRT line.
For example, if you need to travel from Ortigas to a destination served by the LRT-2, you would transfer to the Cubao station. From Ortigas MRT Station, take the train to Cubao, then walk to the nearby Araneta Center-Cubao station to catch the LRT-2.
By planning your connections well, you can make the most of the convenience offered by MRT and LRT networks to efficiently reach your destination, saving time and reducing your commute stress.
Download Useful Apps
If you are one of the many people who get anxious when you commute to unfamiliar places, you can take advantage of the applications available on your mobile device. These could be Google Maps or Waze, which provide real-time traffic updates and suggest the best routes.
For public transportation, Sakay. Ph also offers comprehensive route information for jeepneys, buses, and trains. While ride-sharing apps like Grab and Angkas provide convenient options for times when public transport isn’t ideal. Having these tools at your fingertips can make your daily travel more efficient and less stressful.
Key Takeaway
Living in Ortigas offers a blend of convenience and vibrant city life. By using this transportation guide for Ortigas dwellers and utilizing the various modes of transportation in the area, you can appreciate this place more and make the most out of what it has to offer.
Whether you prefer taking the MRT, hopping on a bus, or simply strolling around the bustling streets, you’ll find that getting around Ortigas is both easy and efficient.
Enjoy the convenient transport and commute when you live at Laya by Shang Properties. Explore the vibrant streets of Ortigas, indulge in shopping at nearby malls, or savor the diverse culinary offerings of the area—all made accessible by our strategic location and the comprehensive transportation options available. Contact us today to learn more!
