Rail lines unlikely to extend hours

MANILA, Philippines — The Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and the Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) are unlikely to grant the request of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to extend the period of their train journeys during the time when malls will extend their businaess hours until late at night.

Previously, acting MMDA chairman Romando Artes announced that shopping malls in Metro Manila will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. from Nov. 14 to Jan. 6 next year to prevent a surge of vehicular traffic during the Christmas season.

He would discuss with Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista the possibility of prolonging the schedule of rail lines like the MRT-3 and the LRT-2, both under the DOTr, as well as the EDSA bus carousel until midnight.

However, the MRT-3 said “historically, we are not extending train operations as it will affect the system’s maintenance schedule,” usually slated at night when the MRT-3 ends its operation for the day.

The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), the LRT-2’s operator, cited the same reason and maintained that fewer passengers ride the trains beyond 7 p.m.

“The LRT-2 has extended its operating hours in June 2022, from 9 p.m. closing time to 9:30 pm,” it added.

In an interview over dzRH yesterday, Artes he would bring up with Bautista if the EDSA bus carousel could accommodate more bus trips until midnight.