Rail ops maxed as fares drop

The Department of Transportation said it is already deploying the maximum number of train sets on Metro Manila’s rail lines, with no plans to further extend operating hours.

In a statement on Friday, the DOTr said all available rolling stock are in use during peak periods, with 19 train sets running on the MRT-3, including six four-car trains, and 10 train sets deployed on the LRT.

“The maximum number of train sets are already in operation for the MRT (19 train sets during peak hours, including six four-car trains) and LRT (10 train sets),” the DOTr said.

The agency added there are currently no plans to lengthen operating hours, noting that services for both lines have already been extended since 2025.

Starting Monday, 23 March, the DOTr will implement a 50 percent fare discount for all passengers of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) to help ease commuting costs amid rising fuel prices.

Acting Transport Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the fare reduction would help commuters save on transportation expenses.

“The government is doing everything to ease the hardship of Filipinos amid the conflict in the Middle East. Our priority is uninterrupted travel and more affordable fares, which is why we will provide a 50 percent discount on MRT-3 and LRT-2 for all,” he said.

Meanwhile, fares on the LRT-2 will drop to as low as P6.50 under a new fare matrix implementing a 50 percent discount starting March 23, the Light Rail Transit Authority said Friday.

Under the updated matrix, stored value card users will pay between P6.50 and P16.50, depending on distance traveled.

Single-journey ticket fares, meanwhile, will range from P8 to P18, with reduced rates applied across all stations from Recto station to Antipolo station.

The discounted fares will apply systemwide, covering key stops such as Cubao station, Katipunan station, and Santolan station.