Independent audit on MRT-3 complete — DOTr

CAPAS, Tarlac, Philippines — The independent audit and assessment for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and the 48 light rail vehicles from CRRC Dalian Co. Ltd. has been finished, but discussions on the results would  have to be made  with the Chinese company first, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said.

In a press briefing here, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said the agency is now set to discuss the results with Dalian’s representatives following the completion of the third party audit conducted by TUV Rheinland.

“The audit has been completed. The report will be discussed with Dalian. I hope we do not preempt it. Once discussions are over, I will get back to you and discuss on the firm and final position on these trains,” Tugade said in Filipino.

The safety audit, which started on Jan. 3, will determine the extent of rehabilitation works that needs to be done on the MRT-3.

 At the same time, the audit looked into the condition of the new Dalian coaches, and whether they are in accordance with the terms of reference (TOR), among others.

“Is the evaluation showing that the submission is complete and in accordance to the TOR? The answer is no. Is the non-compliance substantive and prejudicial to safety and comfort of passengers? That we will find out during the discussion with Dalian. Let’s wait for the next chapter,” Tugade said.

Tugade said Japanese company Sumitomo-MHI is expected to return and come on board in the next couple of months as the maintenance provider of MRT-3.

This comes after the exchange of note verbales last January between the governments of the Philippines and Japan, and advance discussions with Sumitomo-MHI on the MRT-3 rehabilitation project.

He said the signing of a loan agreement is targeted to happen this month, to be immediately followed by the mobilization of Sumitomo as maintenance provider of the MRT-3.