Pasay City: The government would improve the country's critical infrastructure to improve the commuting experience of Filipino workers, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Thursday. During the 123rd Labor Day celebration at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, Marcos emphasized the need to ease the transit burdens on Filipinos commuting to work.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos highlighted the government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure, including the construction of roads, bridges, and piers, to ensure faster and safer travel across the country. He emphasized the importance of reducing the time spent by commuters in transit, allowing them to enjoy more family time instead of waiting in long queues.

Marcos also mentioned the extension of operating hours for the Metro Rail Transit-3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit-1 (LRT-1) as a measure to alleviate commuter woes. Additionally, the number of operational train sets for the LRT-2 has increased to 10 from the previous six or seven, providing more service to the public.

The government is focused on ensuring that elevators and escalators at all train stations are well-maintained. Marcos outlined future infrastructure projects such as the completion of the MRT-7, the North-South Commuter Railway, the Metro Manila Subway, and the EDSA Busway Improvement Project, all aimed at providing a more comfortable and quicker commute for Filipinos.

He highlighted the urgency of these projects by pointing out the current challenges faced by commuters, especially during late hours, and reiterated the government's commitment to providing solutions that would allow workers to spend more time with their families.

In a gesture to honor Filipino workers, Marcos had earlier announced free train rides from April 30 to May 3 in celebration of Labor Day.