LRT2 west extension project lacks budget, says LRTA exec

Light Rail Administrator Transit Authority (LRTA) administrator Hernando Cabrera on Wednesday said they do not have enough funds yet for the Light Rail Transit 2 (LRT2) West Extension project.

In a public briefing, Cabrera said the engineering plans and other preparations for the projects have already been finished.

“Kaya lang kinukulang pa tayo ng budget kasi aabutin itong project na ito mga P9 billion. So far, ang na-turn over pa lang sa ating ng [Department of Transportation] ay around mga P2 billion,” he said.

(But, we are still lacking in budget because the project would need P9 billion. So far, the Department of Transportation has turned over P2 billion.)

Cabrera said they are working on getting more funds from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

He added that they are also targeting to receive a multi-year contracting authority within the year so they can start the bidding process for the project.

Under the west extension project, three more stations in Tutuban, Divisoria, and Pier 4 will be constructed.

Meanwhile, Cabrera said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ordered the LRTA through DOTR to ensure customer satisfaction in its train services.

He said he would check elevators, escalators, comfort rooms, trains, and ticketing systems in LRT2 facilities.

As the newly installed LRTA administrator, Cabrera said he would also focus on ensuring reliable, safe, and accessible service. —LBG, GMA News