LRT-1 Cavite Extension on track to open next year

MANILA, Philippines — The first phase of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) Cavite Extension attained a 94- percent completion rate as of September, putting the rail project on schedule to open for commercial operations by the end of 2024.

The Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC), operator of LRT-1, is close to finishing the LRT-1 Cavite Extension, reporting a 94.1-percent progress for the expansion of the railway as of September.

This puts LRMC on track to comply with its commitment to finish the construction and begin the operations of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension by the fourth quarter of 2024.

On a per station basis, LRMC has built 86.3 percent of the Redemptorist Station, the stop closest to the current end of the rail line. The concessionaire has also delivered 86.9 percent of the MIA Station, where commuters may drop off to get to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Further, LRMC has finished 72.9 percent of the Asia World Station that will be connected to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange, providing passengers with convenient transfer. LRMC has also completed 81.5 percent of the Ninoy Aquino Station.

Last, LRMC has put up 90.5 percent of the Dr. Santos Station – the final stop in the first phase of the project – that links to a bus terminal and a nearby mall.

LRMC president and CEO Juan Alfonso said the LRT-1 Cavite Extension will pave the way for a new era in Philippine railway, as it features modern facilities that promote the safety and security of commuters.

“We are optimistic that in less than a year, we will begin the commercial operations of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Phase 1,” Alfonso committed.

After the first portion, the LRT-1 Cavite Extension will expand by two more segments, allowing the rail system to reach Las Piñas City and Cavite. In an earlier interview with reporters, Alfonso said LRMC, however, has yet to secure the right of way for the final phases of the project.

The second portion of the extension will add two stops to LRT-1: Las Piñas and Zapote Stations. Meanwhile, the final part of the project will extend the railway to Bacoor, Cavite.