Concert Goer’s Guide: How to Get to Philippine Arena from Manila

Going to a concert is exciting and fun, especially if you’re a fan of a famous artist or band. However, buying tickets, transportation, food, and accommodation can also cost a lot of money. But, it can be advantageous if you have bought an affordable house and lot in Lumina Homes because it is near Philippine Arena.

Fast Facts About Philippine Arena

Based on the Guinness World Record, the Philippine Arena is recognized as the world's largest indoor arena, with an estimated 51, 929 seating capacity. It is located in Ciudad de Victoria, Santa Maria, Bulacan, commissioned by Iglesia ni Cristo for New Era University. It is also 24 kilometers from Metro Manila or around 55 minutes, excluding traffic. 

1. Structure

According to designer Burro Happold, its design was inspired by a classical concept based on the Narra tree and the roots of a Banyan tree. Meanwhile, the roof structure was inspired by a thatch roof of a Nipa hut.

2. Resiliency

The Philippine Arena can withstand a magnitude 8 earthquake, as featured on Discovery Channel’s Man-made Marvels Episode “Quake Proof.” It was also proven that this gigantic arena endured Category 5 Super Typhoon Haiyan or Yolanda in 2013.

3. Historic Events

The first event held in the Philippine Arena was its inauguration on July 21, 2014. It was followed by a Special Worship Service and Oratorio led by INCExecutive Minister Felix V. Manalo on July 24, 2014.

The biggest audience ever gathered in Philippine Arena was Eat Bulaga’s Special Episode, AlDub’s Sa Tamang Panahon. It was the first event in the arena shown live on October 24, 2015, with over 55,000 people. 

In sports, the biggest crowd recorded was during the 2017 PBA Governor’s Cup Final Game last October 27, 2017. It was the final battle between Barangay Ginebra and Meralco Bolts with 54, 086 people. But, the last successful sporting event was the 2019 Southeast Asian Games Opening Ceremony.

Other remarkable events in this enormous arena were the UniTeam Proclamation Rally on February 8, 2022, and the 2022 Bulacan State University Commencement Exercises. 

2 Ways to Go to Philippine Arena from Manila

Now that the COVID-19 pandemic is almost over, the Philippine Arena will again be filled with massive crowds and loud shouts. Among the most-awaited concerts and events are Seventeen World Tour, 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, Harry Styles: Love on Tour, and Blackpink: Born Pink World Tour.

1. Private Vehicles Via North Luzon Expressway

Driving your own car or riding in a private vehicle can get you to Philippine Arena easy. So, begin your journey in Balintawak and Smart Connect Interchange to enter the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). After passing the Marilao Exit, go straight ahead to reach the Ciudad de Victoria. Make sure to keep your vehicle on the right side of the shoulder road until you get to the Philippine Arena.  

2. Public Transportation

On the other hand, riding public transportation is the cheapest option to reach the Philippine Arena. So, it would be ideal to get up early to prevent huge commuters during peak hours and, eventually, won’t miss the event. You have two options.

Via Cubao, Quezon City

Your starting point will be at the Farmer’s Plaza in Cubao. Ride a bus going to Santa Maria, Bulacan, so check the bus signboard. You take either the “Santa Maria Bocaue Exit,” “Santa Clara Bocaue Exit,” or “Garden Bocaue Exit Santa Maria.”

Then, request the bus conductor to drop you off at Barangay Turo. Take a walk or ride a tricycle bound for the Philippine Arena.

Via Doroteo Jose LRT Station, Manila

If your starting point is from Roosevelt and Baclaran, you only need to ride the LRT at Doroteo Jose LRT Station. Underneath the station, you can find a bus terminal going to Bocaue, Bulacan. Look for the signboard stating “Santa Cruz - Bocaue.” Ask the people around the bus terminal to quickly locate the bus route.

The travel time can take more than an hour to reach the drop-off point in Barangay Turo. Tell the bus conductor if you don’t know the location. Then, take a walk or ride a tricycle going to the Philippine Arena once you get off the bus.

Do’s and Don’ts When Attending a Concert

Whether it is your first time or you are a frequent concert attendee, it is critical to know the rules to enjoy the best concert experience. 

1. Secure a ticket.

The most important thing you need to prepare is the concert ticket. The concert promoters and advertisers usually announce it earlier, so people have time to save money for the purchase. Buy tickets from authorized sellers only and avoid buying from scalpers, no matter how attractive the price is.  

2. Read and review the concert procedures.

Every event has its own procedures, such as things allowed to bring and permitted banner sizes. Some concerts allow the audience to bring professional cameras, while other events do not allow them, or else you’ll be kicked out of the venue.

3. Practice standard COVID-19 protocol.

It is highly recommended to bring masks, alcohol, and a vaccination card. Since there is still a pandemic threat, it is best to practice standard protocol even if you are fully vaccinated. Remember, not all concertgoers are COVID-19-free, and having a vaccine reduces the risk of getting infected.   

Enjoy the Best Concert Experience through Lumina Homes

The Philippine Arena is starting to earn revenues from concerts and events again. So, why not take this opportunity to make a real estate investment? 

Lumina Homes have several residential communities near this biggest indoor arena, such as Lumina San Miguel, Lumina Pandi, Lumina Baliuag, and Lumina Residences Bulacan. You can use this asset for rent or as an ideal place to settle down. 

Besides complete amenities, you can also find eSpacio, where you can interact with other people or buy less expensive food while waiting for the concert to start. It's a place where everyone is welcome, even if you belong to vulnerable sectors.

Get a head start now by investing in Lumina Homes.