MRT3 ferries limited passengers as Metro Manila shifts to GCQ

A huge decrease in the number of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3) passengers was observed during the first day of the general community quarantine in Metro Manila.

According to Sandra Aguinaldo’s report on “24 Oras,” the situation at various MRT3 stations on Monday was very different compared to the pre-quarantine days.

As the country transitions to the “new normal” amid the COVID-19 pandemic, commuters at MRT3’s North Avenue Station lined up to get their temperatures checked while wearing their face masks and observing physical distancing.

Despite the rush hour, only 153 passengers were allowed to ride the train set at a time.

Moreover, inside the trains, seats are also marked so commuters will know where to sit and stand.

“Okay naman mas safe tayo lahat kasi social distancing at tsaka laging naka-face mask at may dalang alcohol,” James Sulviras, a passenger, said.

“At least ‘yong maiibsan na ‘yong nararanasan ng mga walang trabaho, makakapasok na sila,” another passenger added.

A total of 19 train sets were deployed earlier, including three sets from Dalian.

The Department of Transportation said commuters can expect a speed of 40 kilometers per hour, and an average headway of 6 minutes.

The rail line also conducts a five-minute disinfection hustle on the whole train whenever it reaches the terminal stations. —Ma. Angelica Garcia/LDF, GMA News