Makati Office Commute Guide: Bus Routes & Tips

If you’re one of the thousands of professionals commuting to Makati each day, you know that navigating Metro Manila’s transport system can feel like a job in itself. Whether you’re new to the city or a long-time Makati office worker looking for a more efficient commute, understanding your options especially bus routes is key to starting and ending your workday right.

Buses remain essential for commuting in Makati, offering cost-effective and accessible options for daily travel. This guide highlights key routes like the EDSA Carousel, P2P buses, BGC-Makati Bus, and Ayala Loop, along with major terminals and schedules to avoid peak hours. It also covers fares, payment methods, and smart tips to make commuting smoother. Beyond logistics, it encourages professionals to enjoy Makati’s dynamic work-life balance—from premium office spaces to lifestyle hubs.

Despite the rise of ride-hailing apps and the MRT, buses remain one of the most cost-effective and accessible ways to get around Makati. They serve as lifelines for those coming from the north, south, and east of the metro, and with the recent modernization of routes and systems (thanks to the EDSA Bus Carousel and other reforms), commuting via bus has become faster, safer, and more organized.

1. EDSA Bus Carousel (North Avenue to PITX via Ayala)

• Key Stops in Makati: Ayala, Buendia

• Best For: Commuters coming from Quezon City, Mandaluyong, or Pasay

• Tip: Get an early start—this line moves fast but fills up during rush hours.

2. P2P Buses (Point-to-Point)

• Popular Routes to Makati:

• Alabang Town Center ↔ Greenbelt 1

• Schedule: Hourly departures; journey takes approximately 45 minutes.

• Nuvali ↔ Glorietta 5

• Schedule: Monday to Friday, with hourly trips from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• Eastwood ↔ Makati CBD

• Schedule: Monday to Friday, with trips from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM.

Why It Works: No stops in between, meaning less travel time and guaranteed seating.

3. Makati BGC Bus

• Route: Market! Market! ↔ Makati CBD (One Ayala, Ayala Triangle, RCBC, and more)

• Schedule: Monday to Friday, from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

• Best For: BGC workers with meetings or remote workers commuting between central business districts.

4. Ayala Loop Jeepney + Bus Hybrid

• Stops: Circuit Makati, Ayala MRT, Glorietta, Ayala Triangle, Salcedo Village

• Schedule: Daily, from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

• Why It’s Handy: It’s great for quick transfers within the CBD without using a car.

• One Ayala Terminal (formerly Park Square)

• Hub for P2P, EDSA Carousel, and inter-city buses

• Buendia Terminal

• Access point for EDSA Carousel and buses heading toward EDSA or SLEX

• Ayala Avenue Loading Bays

• Key stops include Paseo de Roxas, Rufino, and Makati Medical Center

• Rush Hours: 6:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–8:00 PM

• Midday Lull: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (best time to travel with fewer crowds)

• Weekend Service: Some routes (especially P2P) run limited schedules—always check ahead

Commuting in Makati doesn’t have to break the bank. From affordable jeepneys to express P2P buses, there’s a price point for every commuter.

Payment methods are flexible:

• Beep Cards are widely accepted across most modern buses, including the EDSA Bus Carousel, P2P buses, and BGC-Makati Bus.

• Cash is still accepted on traditional buses and local jeepney-style hybrids like the Ayala Loop.

Sample Bus Fares:

• EDSA Bus Carousel: ₱17–₱75.50 depending on distance (ex. North Avenue to Ayala is about ₱59).

• P2P Buses: ₱100–₱200 depending on the route (ex. Alabang to Makati approx. ₱100; Nuvali up to ₱200).

• Makati BGC Bus: ₱15 flat rate (cashless, Beep card only).

• Ayala Loop Hybrid (Jeepney + Bus): ₱14 (cash only).

Pro Tip: Beep Cards are your best friend for a seamless ride—tap in and out to avoid delays and make transfers easier.

• P2P Fares: Range from ₱100–₱150 depending on your point of origin

• Always check the latest schedules via transport apps like Sakay.ph or Move It

• Avoid rush hours when possible by adjusting your shift or using remote work flex days

• Be prepared for rain—many bus terminals are open-air. Bring an umbrella!

• Bookmark loading and unloading zones near your building to avoid long walks

Makati is more than just a business district—it’s a hub of culture, innovation, and opportunity. From office spaces and fitness studios to art galleries and pocket parks, commuting is just the first step in making the most of office life here.

Knowing your transport options not only saves time and stress, but it also lets you explore the best the city has to offer—without breaking the bank or spending hours in traffic.

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