Longer queues observed as 50% discount on MRT-3, LRT-2 rides start

A 50% discount is now effective on train rides at the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) to help ease the impact of rising fuel prices on the public. 

At the MRT-3 Cubao Station during the morning rush hour, longer queues of passengers were observed as more commuters took advantage of the reduced fares.

MRT-3 general manager Michael Capati told GMA Integrated News’ Unang Balita in an interview that the fare discount will remain in effect “until further notice,” pending guidance from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. 

The MRT-3 official noted that while the program would result in reduced revenue, operations would continue as usual since the rail line is government-subsidized.

Capati also assured the public that maintenance operations would not be affected, as these are covered by a separate contract and funding mechanism, including support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

With the expected increase in passengers, MRT-3 management has deployed additional personnel and security to manage queues, especially during peak hours.

Meanwhile, LRT-2 riders also welcomed the fare discount, saying it would significantly help them cope with daily expenses, according to a report of James Agustin. 

They said the savings from lower fares would be redirected to other necessities such as food, transportation, and household needs.

With the discount, a trip from Cubao to Antipolo that previously cost P23 using a stored-value card is now down to P11.50. 

Fares for single journey tickets now range from P8 to P18, while stored-value card fares range from P6.50 to P16.50, depending on the destination.

The discount applies to all passengers, but those already entitled to a 50% discoun such as students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities will no longer receive additional reductions.

The Light Rail Transit Authority estimates that around 210,000 daily passengers on LRT-2 are expected to benefit from the initiative.

Authorities expect ridership to increase in the coming days as more commuters take advantage of the reduced fares.—AOL, GMA Integrated News