MRT, LRT permanent extended hours not 'feasible' says DOTr
The Department of Transportation has ruled out the possibility of permanently extending the operating hours of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 and the Light Rail Transit lines.
The transportation department said in a statement that while they recognize the potential advantages of extended operating hours for commuters, it could interfere with the crucial maintenance periods required for the rail systems, which could ultimately compromise safety standards.
“Extending operating hours on a permanent basis will compromise the ability of our maintenance teams to conduct necessary system checks and repairs," the DOTr said.
"These activities are vital to guarantee the safety, reliability, and efficiency of our train services," it continued.
Party-list group Akbayan previously called for extended operating hours for the main railways, arguing that this would benefit night shift workers. Akbayan also highlighted the increased safety of MRT and LRT stations due to the presence of security personnel.
Last week, DOTr announced schedule changes for major train lines in Metro Manila to accommodate more commuters in preparation for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
"On select days, our trains will operate earlier in the morning and later into the night to offer greater convenience to passengers during the holiday season," DOTr Sec. Jaime Bautista said. "These adjustments will also allow our rail employees more time to spend with their families as they celebrate the holidays."
The MRT-3, operating from North Avenue to Taft Avenue station, will begin its adjusted hours on Dec. 16.
From Dec. 16 to 24, and on Dec. 31, the MRT-3 will then start its first commercial trip from North Avenue station at 4:30 a.m.
Between Dec. 16 and 23, the train line will extend its operating hours, with the last commercial train departing North Avenue at 10:34 p.m. and Taft Avenue at 11:08 p.m.
As for the Light Rail Transit Line 2, the trip from Antipolo to Recto station will have its first commercial train at 5 a.m. from Dec. 17 to 23, 24, and 31. Regular operating hours will take place from Dec. 25 to 30 and from Jan. 1 onwards.
The LRT-1, meanwhile, will have its adjusted operating hours starting on Dec. 20.
The two terminus stations—Dr. Santos Station (formerly Sucat) in Paranaque and Fernando Poe Jr. Station in Quezon City—will have their earliest operations on Dec. 20, 23, and 26 to 27 at 4:30 a.m. Their latest operations will be on Dec. 20 and 23, with the last train departing at 10:30 p.m. and 10:45 p.m. from Dr. Santos and FPJ stations, respectively.
