Manila: Senator Grace Poe on Tuesday lauded the extension of operating hours for the Metro Rail Transit-3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit-1 (LRT-1), citing its help to workers rushing to catch the last train after a long day of work. 'The extended operating hours of the MRT and LRT bring a welcome respite to our commuters. Tired and weary from work, our kababayans (fellow citizens) taking the train often have to rush to beat the last trip going home,' she said in a statement.
According to Philippines News Agency, the senator emphasized that the measure is especially timely as the rehabilitation of the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) pushes more people to ditch their cars in favor of public transportation. She also urged authorities to ensure enhanced commuter support, including adequate security, help desks, and well-maintained facilities.
Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC), which operates LRT-1, announced that starting Wednesday, train services will be extended by 30 minutes on weekdays. The last train from Dr. Santos station in Para±aque City will now depart at 10:30 p.m., while the final northbound trip from Fernando Poe Jr. station (formerly Roosevelt Station, along EDSA) will leave at 10:45 p.m.
The announcement follows MRT-3's implementation of extended evening weekday hours beginning March 24. Under the new schedule, the last southbound train from North Avenue departs at 10:30 p.m., and the final northbound train from Taft Avenue leaves at 11:09 p.m. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said additional trains are also being deployed during peak hours to reduce congestion and accommodate more passengers, particularly amid an ongoing transport strike by transport group Manibela.
While recognizing that Metro Manila's public transit still has a long way to go, Poe said small steps such as the extended operating hours bring the country closer to a more efficient and inclusive transport system. 'It has been said that a good indicator of a progressive country is not everyone owning a car, but even the wealthy using public transportation. While miles away from this, every little initiative is a step closer to the goal,' she added.
