3 hurt as 2 MRT trains make sudden stop

MANILA, Philippines - Three Metro Rail Transit (MRT) commuters were hurt while most passengers “fell like dominos” after two trains abruptly stopped yesterday morning. 

Two persons were hurt when a southbound train stopped before reaching the Santolan station at around 9:30 a.m. while a third person was hurt when another train stopped at the Magallanes station just before 11 a.m., MRT general manager Roman Buenafe said.

The MRT trains suddenly stopped after the rail line’s automatic protection system was activated, Buenafe said. 

He said the trains’ drivers will be called to explain the incidents.

Buenafe said that he is aware of the risk the trains pose to commuters, citing that the MRT trains are old and need to be replaced. Only 14 of 22 MRT trains are operational, he added.

He also said the “technical problem” that occurred yesterday is likely to happen again due to the poor condition of the railway.

He recommended that to avoid any untoward incidents in the train, passengers should follow instructions, particularly that of holding on to hand rails. – Robertzon Ramirez, Lawrence Agcaoili