What is Skyway Stage 3?
Skyway Stage 3 is an 18.83-kilometer elevated expressway that connects the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) to the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) through Metro Manila. It provides a direct, elevated route from Buendia (Makati) to Balintawak (Quezon City), completely bypassing EDSA and surface road traffic. Since its opening, Skyway Stage 3 has transformed inter-city travel in the Philippines by enabling seamless north-south expressway connectivity.
Skyway Stage 3 Exits (South to North)
Skyway Stage 3 has 6 on/off ramps from south to north:
- Buendia - Access to Makati CBD, Gil Puyat Ave. Connects to Skyway System
- Quirino - Access to Quirino Ave., Malate, Manila
- Plaza Dilao - Access to Paco, Manila; near PNR station
- Nagtahan - Access to Santa Mesa, Sampaloc, UST area
- E. Rodriguez - Access to Quezon City, New Manila, Cubao area
- Quezon Ave. - Access to Quezon Memorial Circle, EDSA-Quezon Ave. area
Toll Fees and RFID
Skyway Stage 3 uses the Autosweep RFID system (SMC Tollways). The full route from Buendia to Balintawak costs ₱264 for Class 1 vehicles. Partial trips cost less depending on your entry and exit points. Use our toll calculator for exact fees. Important: When traveling from Skyway Stage 3 to NLEX at Balintawak, the RFID system changes from Autosweep to Easytrip. You need both RFID stickers for the full SLEX-Skyway-NLEX route.
How Skyway Stage 3 Connects SLEX to NLEX
The SLEX-to-NLEX route via Skyway Stage 3 is the most direct expressway route through Metro Manila. From SLEX (e.g., Alabang or Magallanes), take Skyway to Buendia, then Skyway Stage 3 northbound all the way to Balintawak. At Balintawak, you connect to NLEX heading north. The entire SLEX-Skyway-Skyway Stage 3-NLEX journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes without traffic, compared to 1.5-3 hours via EDSA.
Traffic Tips for Skyway Stage 3
Skyway Stage 3 generally has light to moderate traffic throughout the day. However, the Buendia on-ramp can get congested during morning rush hours (7-9 AM) and the Balintawak interchange can be slow during evening rush (5-8 PM). The elevated road is also affected by weather — strong winds or heavy rain may cause temporary speed reductions or closures. Always check for advisories before your trip.
