The Department of Transportation (DOTr) held a press conference today at the LRTA Depot in Pasay City to announce the upcoming implementation of fare adjustments for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Lines 1 and 2.
The fare adjustment, which will take effect on August 2, aims to support the continued improvement and sustainability of the LRT operations.
The announcement was made by the DOTr in collaboration with the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRT-1) and the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA - LRT-2). According to the railways management, the fare increase is necessary to maintain the quality of service and further enhance the passenger experience.
Under the new fare structure, the minimum boarding fee for both LRT-1 and LRT-2 will be adjusted. For LRT-1, the minimum boarding fee will be set at P13.29, an increase from the previous P11. Meanwhile, LRT-2 will also see an adjustment from P1 to P1.21 per kilometer for every kilometer traveled.
The railways management published the fare adjustment announcement on their official website earlier today, providing the public with information and transparency regarding the upcoming changes.
However, not everyone is pleased with the fare increase. Senator Grace Poe expressed her concerns during the press conference, stating that improvements in train services and facilities should precede any fare adjustments. She emphasized the need to prioritize the welfare of students and workers who heavily rely on affordable mass transportation.
Poe also urged the privately-operated LRT-1 to invest in enhancing its train system to make the venture profitable. In the case of LRT-2, she called for a thorough examination of the government subsidies allocated to the line to ensure they are utilized effectively for the benefit of the passengers.
The Senator stressed that a good and reliable train service would attract more passengers and that it is crucial for commuters to experience a safe, comfortable, and modern train system on their journeys.
As the implementation of the fare adjustment approaches, the DOTr, LRT-1, and LRT-2 will continue to engage with stakeholders and address any concerns that may arise. The aim is to create a sustainable and efficient public transportation system that meets the needs of the commuting public while ensuring the long-term viability of the LRT operations.