Free MRT-3, LRT-2, PNR rides for vaccinated authorized persons to continue during MECQ

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Saturday it would continue to provide free MRT-3, LRT-2, and PNR rides for vaccinated Authorized Persons Outside Residence (APORs) during the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine.

The MECQ will be enforced from August 21-31, 2021.

The offer covers those who have been fully vaccinated and those who have received a single dose.

The MRT-3 free rides will be offered during peak hours from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Meanwhile, APORs can ride LRT-2 and PNR trains on off-peak hours for free.

The DOTr said the limited continuation of the free rides for vaccinated APORs program will only be offered during the enforcement of the MECQ in Metro Manila until the end of the month.

"Any further extension of the free ride program for vaccinated APORs will be later re-evaluated depending on changes in the quarantine status of Metro Manila, and the operational requirements of the rail lines," said Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade.

"This free ride program aims to encourage more APORs to get vaccinated, especially now that new and more transmissible variants of COVID-19 are emerging."

APORs qualified to receive the offer must present their vaccination card at the MRT-3 station and these forms of identifications to confirm that they are authorized to be outside: a Certificate of Employment (COE) and a valid government-issued ID, or a Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID or company ID.

Only Authorized Persons Outside Residence are allowed to take the train rides during the MECQ.

Tugade reiterated his appeal for APORs to strictly observe physical distancing and other health protocols now in effect to stem the spread of COVID-19 while inside public transport vehicles and stations.

He said all trains will have transport marshals to enforce health protocols and to identify APORs.

The Transport Secretary urged APORs to be ready to present documents to show that they are APORs.

Trains will also be disinfected after every loop.

Transport marshals inside the trains will also strictly enforce health and safety protocols which include the wearing of face shields and masks at all times; compliance to the “no talking and eating’ policy; ensuring adequate airflow and ventilation; and enforcement of social distancing, as well as proper disinfection and sanitation.

Passengers showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to board trains.

Temperature checks will be done at station entrances. — DVM, GMA News