DOTC urged: Extend MRT, LRT operating hours

MANILA, Philippines – Administration lawmakers yesterday urged the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) to extend the operating hours of the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) this Christmas season.

Liberal Party vice presidential candidate Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo and Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas said the extended MRT and LRT services would help ease the monstrous traffic jams in Metro Manila.

“The MRT and LRT operations will be a great help to lessen the stress of commuting by shoppers and other people this Christmas season,” Robredo said.

“Many of our countrymen attend parties and reunions so they need fast transportation,” she added.

The LRT Line 1 from Baclaran to Muñoz in Quezon City operates from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. during weekdays and 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. during weekends and holidays.

LRT Line 2 operates from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. during weekdays and 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. during weekends and holidays. The MRT runs from 4:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily.

Robredo called on the authorities to beef up security at malls, train stations and other places frequented by people.

Vargas, for his part, asked the DOTC and the operators of LRT and MRT to ensure that trains remain safe for passengers.