DoTr mobilizes augmentation buses easing LRT-2 morning rush

The Department of Transportation (DoTr) has deployed 20 augmentation buses to assist commuters affected by limited train availability on Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2), particularly during peak morning travel hours, transportation officials announced Wednesday.

During an inspection at the LRT-2 Masinag station, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon acknowledged that up to 4,000 passengers remain stranded between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. daily, with many waiting 30 to 45 minutes just to board a train.

“You have seen the long queues. Sometimes, commuters have to wait 30 to 45 minutes before they can board,” Dizon said, citing that crowding worsened following a 50 percent fare discount introduced to assist workers during the ongoing fuel crisis.

Only about 10 train sets are currently operational along the line, with technical breakdowns occurring periodically.

Dizon explained that the 25-year-old rolling stock suffers from years of deferred maintenance and chronic underfunding.

The initial fleet of 20 buses will transport commuters from Antipolo to Cubao, with select trips extending to Legarda in Manila to serve students traveling to the University Belt.

Discounted bus fares have been set at P66 for regular passengers, down from the standard P80 rate, while students will pay P55.

“We need to think of an out-of-the-box solution here,” Dizon said, explaining that procuring replacement trains typically requires three to four years, compounded by budget constraints.

To further relieve congestion, the government is studying a dedicated busway lane along Marcos Highway. Estimated travel times along the road corridor during peak hours currently range between 1.5 and two hours.

Dizon issued an apology to commuters, cautioning that the rail fleet shortage cannot be fixed overnight.