MRT-3 apologizes over escalator malfunction that caused 10 passengers to get hurt
A total of 10 passengers of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 were hurt after the escalator at Taft Avenue station malfunctioned on March 8.
GMA News reported that the escalator was packed with passengers during the morning when it malfunctioned, causing some of them to fall on top of each other.
A passenger on March 9 also shared videos of the incident's aftermath.
"Everything's a blur at the time, makes you appreciate adrenaline pero waking up after all these, lumalabas yung sakit ng katawan na di nafeel kahapon," the passenger said in a Facebook post.
In a statement on March 11, the Department of Transportation said the elevator malfunctioned because of issues with its main drive chain.
MRT-3 staff did repair work right after the incident and lasted until March 11 at 5:33 p.m. A Reel showed them using the working escalator again.
The DOTr said it would cover medical expenses, while the insurance company will assess and approve compensation for lost income due to the incident.
"This event reinforces the DOTr's commitment to the privatization of transportation infrastructure, such as the MRT-3, to enhance safety and convenience for commuters," it added.
In another statement earlier in the day, MRT General Manager Oscar Bongon apologized to the affected passengers, noting that the medical expenses they'd cover include check-ups and workups aside from first aid.
'Unacceptable'
The three-day downtime prompted passengers to use the stairs, posing difficulties to seniors especially.
DOTr Sec. Vince Dizon told GMA News the situation was unacceptable.
"I reviewed the contract, dapat, within 48 hours, gumagana na ulit ang kahit anong escalator, elevator or apparatus dyan sa MRT-3,” Dizon said.
The official said he will inspect the station.
The MRT-3 management asked passengers to report similar incidents to its hotline at 09957363129.
It also advised its maintenance provider to conduct regular extensive maintenance moving forward.
