The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has approved the LRT fare increase for Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1).
The new fare structure will take effect on April 2, 2025, following the DOTr’s decision to allow the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) to adjust fares.
The decision to increase the LRT fare rate aims to sustain and improve LRT-1’s services, including station upgrades, enhanced safety measures, and overall system efficiency.
The boarding fee will rise from ₱13.29 to ₱16.25, while the per-kilometer rate will increase from ₱1.21 to ₱1.47.
This means that for an end-to-end trip, stored value card holders will now pay ₱52, up from the current ₱43, while single-journey ticket holders will pay ₱55, compared to the previous ₱45.
The Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) highlighted that this fare adjustment marks only the second increase in the past decade.
Enrico R. Benipayo, President and CEO of LRMC, expressed gratitude for the fare adjustment approval, emphasizing the necessity of continuous investment in maintenance, upgrades, and expansion to sustain efficient and safe operations.
He noted that this fare increase is essential for addressing the ₱2.17 billion fare deficit accumulated due to previous delays in fare adjustments.
The LRMC assures the public that the additional funds will be utilized to improve the overall quality and reliability of LRT-1 services.
The fare is increasing because the company running LRT-1 needs more money to keep the trains running smoothly, maintain the tracks, and improve the system. They also need funds to help pay for the expansion of the train line, like the new extension to Cavite. Without the fare hike, it would be harder to keep the trains in good condition and provide better service to passengers.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr), which oversees public transportation in the country, approved the fare increase. They reviewed the request from the train operator and decided how much the increase should be.
No, the fare increase only applies to LRT-1. The government hasn’t announced any changes to the fares for LRT-2 or MRT-3 yet.
Keep Reading: LRT-1 Cavite Extension Route Map covers an 11.7-kilometer track: Here’s what you need to know
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