The Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 Cavite Extension (Phase 1) will begin operations tomorrow, November 16, providing commuters with a faster and more reliable mass transportation option.
The first rapid transit service in Southeast Asia, as it is called, will be opening the following stations:
- Redemptorist – Aseana Station
- MIA Road Station
- Ninoy Aquino Avenue Station
- Asia World (PITX) Station
- Dr. Santos (Sucat) Station
The launch of LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension Phase I operations is anticipated to ease traffic and provide a more comfortable travel experience for passengers.
The said modernization project was achieved through a public-private partnership between the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Light Rail Transit Authority, and Light Rail Manila Corporation, the private concessionaire of LRT Line 1.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged the hard work and dedication of his predecessors in bringing the project to completion, stating that the L1CE project has been in the works for a long time.
"We must recognize their roles in helping making this dream a reality. And as we unveil the phase 1 of the L1C project, we are reminded of simple yet powerful truth. The way forward is guided by learning from the past and honoring the values and tradition that shaped our path towards the better future," Marcos said in his speech following the inauguration of L1CE Phase 1 on Friday.
He further stated that the newly opened stations are expected to serve as crucial access points for many Filipinos.
The Dr. Santos Station, in particular, acts as an intermodal transport facility with multiple bases for both public and private vehicles.
Moreover, the completion of Phase 1 allows the LRT-1 to serve 80,000 more passengers each day, significantly increasing its current ridership.
"Commuters will now see a great reduction in travel time allowing them to spend more time with their loved ones. By serving commuters across Metro Manila, Cavite, neighboring areas, the whole project creates a smoother [and] more reliable mode of transport," said Marcos.
He mentioned that the government will keep working on expanding and upgrading the nation's transport system, such as the newly inaugurated stations.
Marcos further stated that the government is determined to complete the remaining three stations, extending to Bacoor, Cavite, at the soonest possible time.
The President also emphasized the need for the immediate completion of the Unified Grand Central Station in Quezon City, which will be the terminal connecting four train lines, to ensure it can quickly offer convenience to passengers.
"Para naman sa MRT-7 na tatahak mula sa Quezon City hanggang Bulacan, inaasahan ko na magagamit na ito upang maranasan nang tinatayang 300,000 pasahero ang pangakong 35 minutong byahe sa magkabilang byahe," Marcos stated.
"Sabik na rin akong makatanggap ng paanyaya sa pagbubukas ng unang yugto ng North-South Commuter Railway," he added.
Starting tomorrow at 5 AM, the L1CE operations will officially be open to the public.
