QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said that the fare hike at LRT 1, which will take effect on Wednesday (April 2), is necessary to ensure operational viability.
In a statement, the transportation department said that the fare hike at LRT 1 is necessary to extend rail to Cavite and to maintain efficient operations for the train commuters.
“While the Department of Transportation (DOTr) respects the decision of those who want to file an appeal against the fare adjustment in LRT-1, which will take effect starting on Wednesday, April 2, it believes that the fare adjustment is long overdue and is necessary to ensure the operational viability of the rail line and sustain its necessary upgrades for the benefit of the commuting public.”
DOTr maintained that the rate increase is needed not only to ensure smooth and timely maintenance of LRT-1 but also the extension of the line all the way to Cavite under the present PPP contract.
Last February, Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) President/CEO Enrico R. Benipayo noted the need for public transport for continuous investment in maintenance, upgrades, and expansion.
LRMC President/CEO Enrico R. Benipayo noted the need for continuous maintenance and upgrades.
Benipayo added that the LRMC has introduced new trains, station upgrades, and better service efficiency. In November last year, LRMC also completed Phase 1 of the Cavite Extension Project and opened the extension for commercial operations.
The new minimum fare is P16 and the maximum is P52 for Stored Value Cards (SVCs). Single Journey Tickets (SJTs) will cost P20 to P55.
DOTr added that the rate increase, which was approved last January 30, 2025, is only the second rate increase with 2023 being the first. This was also much lower than the proposed 20 peso fare originally submitted by the Light Rail Management Corporation. (JEG/PIA-NCR)
