The five new stations of the Light Rail Transit line 1 (LRT-1) Cavite Extension project are nearing completion and are on track to start operations by the fourth quarter.
As of January, Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC), operator of LRT-1, said the project’s overall progress has reached 97 percent and that the company is bullish about the target opening this year.
“We are optimistic about the progress achieved in the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Phase 1 project. This significant milestone is a testament to the perseverance and dedication of our team and our contractors, all working together to make this project come to life connecting countless residents in the south of Metro Manila and nearby provinces,” Juan Alfonso, LRMC president and chief executive officer, said in a statement.
Both civil and system works are progressing rapidly to ensure a smooth and timely opening, the company said.
The five new stations are nearing completion, with Redemptorist Station at 93 percent, MIA Station at 94 percent, Asia World Station at 83 percent, Ninoy Aquino Station at 88 percent and Dr. Santos Station, 94 percent.
LRMC is conducting test runs of various generations of LRT-1 trains, ensuring their compatibility and readiness for operations.
The LRT-1 Cavite Extension Phase 1, upon completion, will extend the existing line by 6.2 kilometers. The first phase will connect Baclaran Station in Pasay City to Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque City.
Phase 1 extension is projected to significantly reduce travel time and benefit up to 600,000 passengers daily.
“This vital infrastructure project that LRMC is spearheading will not only bridge physical distances but also act as a catalyst for economic activity, creating new opportunities for businesses, trade, and commerce to flourish,” Alfonso said.
Under a public-private partnership between the government and LRMC, the LRT-1 Cavite Extension involves extending the existing line by another 11.7 km, adding eight new stations with a provision for two more future stations plus facilities works.
The extended railway will traverse the cities of Parañaque and Las Piñas in Metro Manila, and Bacoor City in Cavite at a maximum speed of 70 km per hour, reducing travel time to just 25 minutes from the current one hour and 10 minutes. – Myla Iglesias