MMDA eyes longer hours for MRT, LRT

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is calling for an extension of the operating hours of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) Lines 1 and 2 for the holidays.

In a chance interview, acting MMDA Chairman Don Artes said the move aims to accommodate the influx of passengers, particularly mall workers, and shoppers given the extended mall hours during the Christmas season.

The MMDA would discuss the proposal for longer operating hours of the elevated rail lines with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), he added.

Artes said the MMDA would also coordinate with service providers to provide more transportation options for commuters.

“We’ll coordinate with the DOTr to extend the MRT and LRT as well as providers, especially the Bus Carousel, so that our commuters can have more transport options,” Artes said in Filipino.

Acknowledging the expected increase in traffic flow as Christmas approaches, Artes assured the public that the MMDA is well-prepared to manage the situation.

He noted that while traffic congestion worsened over the weekend, particularly on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Metro Manila traffic remained well-managed.

“We managed the traffic in Metro Manila properly. The concern was in SLEX and NLEX, where many vehicles came out,” he said.