Phase 1 of LRT1 Cavite extension now 97% complete - LRMC

The planned start of commercial operations of Phase 1 of Light Rail Transit Line 1’s (LRT1) extension by the fourth quarter of 2024 has become more possible as the project gets closer to completion.

In a statement on Wednesday, LRT1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) announced that the LRT1 Cavite Extension Phase 1 reached an overall progress rate of 97% as of this month.

Phase 1 of the LRT1 Cavite Extension Project covers the first five additional stations spanning over six kilometers within the city of Parañaque, namely Redemptorist, MIA, PITX Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, and Dr. Santos.

The company said both civil and system works are progressing rapidly to ensure a smooth and timely opening.

“We are optimistic about the progress achieved in the LRT1 Cavite Extension Phase 1 project. This significant milestone is a testament to the perseverance and dedication of our team and our contractors, all working together to make this project come to life, connecting countless residents in the south of Metro Manila and nearby provinces,” said LRMC president and CEO Juan Alfonso.

LRMC said the Redemptorist Station, which will be the next station after the existing Baclaran Station, registered a completion rate of 93.3%.

The MIA Station, which will be the closest station to the airport, stood at 93.5% completion rate; the Asia World Station, which will be connected to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange, was at 83%.

The Ninoy Aquino Station registered a completion rate of 88%, while Dr. Santos Station—the last station of Phase 1—was at 94.1%.

LRMC said the Dr. Santos Station has already completed the staircase and louver installation.

It added that the MIA Station has finalized its ceiling, and the station is currently undertaking secondary steelwork.

Drainage works have commenced at Redemptorist Station.

LRMC said system works are progressing efficiently, with telecom installation activities at Dr. Santos and Redemptorist stations completed and similar works having begun at MIA and Asia World stations.

LRMC added that it is actively conducting test runs of various generations of LRT1 trains, ensuring their compatibility and readiness for operations.

The company said that the LRT1 Cavite Extension Phase 1, upon completion, will extend the existing line by 6.2 kilometers.

The Phase 1 Extension Project is expected to significantly reduce travel time and benefit up to 600,000 passengers daily.

As for the Cavite leg of the project, the company earlier said that delays in the delivery of right-of-way were hampering the start of ground works.

The segment covers the last three stations, namely Las Piñas, Zapote, and Niog.

LRMC had said right-of-way delivery for the three stations should be “100%” before it can start construction. —VBL, GMA Integrated News