Passenger capacities of the country’s train systems will be increased to 30 percent starting today from the current range of 13 to 18 percent, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said in a statement.
The DOTr said the level will gradually be raised to 50 percent but did not specify when.
The order covers Metro Rail Transit Line — 3 (MRT-3), the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) and the Philippine National Railways (PNR).
At 30 percent capacity, the MRT-3 will accommodate 372 passengers per train set, from the current reduced capacity of 13 percent with 153 passengers per train set. Once the 50 percent increased capacity is implemented, the MRT-3 will be able to cater to 591 passengers per train set.
The LRT-1 line expects its trains will accommodate 370 passengers per train set. Once capacity is increased to 40 percent, it will be able to load up to 495 passengers per train set and with 50 percent, 620 passengers.
For the LRT-2, trains will be able to accommodate 486 passengers per train set at 30 percent capacity, 652 passengers for 40 percent, and 814 at 50 percent capacity.
The PNR will be able to accommodate 179 passengers per train set for the DMU ROTEM model; 167 passengers per train set for the DMU 8000; 228 passengers per train set for the DMU 8100; and 302 passengers per train set for the EMU model.
At 40 percent capacity, the DMU ROTEM model can cater to 196 passengers per train set; 182 passengers per train set for DMU 8000; 249 for DMU 8100; and for EMU, 330 passengers per train set.
Once the 50 percent capacity is implemented, the PNR will be able to serve 212 passengers per train set for the DMU ROTEM model; 198 passengers for DMU 8000; 270 for the DMU 8100 model; and 357 passengers per train set for the EMU model.
Train marshals will be deployed in stations and inside the trains to ensure stringent compliance of passengers to ensure compliance to the so-called 7 Commandments against COVID-19. wear face masks and face shields; no talking and making telephone calls; no eating; keep PUVs well- ventilated; conduct of frequent disinfection; no passengers with COVID-19 symptoms are to be allowed inside the public transportation; and observe appropriate physical distancing.
