Ombudsman probes Villars’ LRT-1 ‘meddling’

MANILA, Philippines — Senators Mark and Camille Villar are reportedly blocking the continuation of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) extension project in Cavite, according to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla.

“We are investigating (the claims). The project should’ve extended to Cavite by now, but we’re still verifying rumors that the Villar senators were going against the alignment. They want the rail system to traverse their lands,” Remulla told radio dzRH on Saturday.

The Villars allegedly want the extended LRT-1 to pass through their property along C5 Road in Las Piñas before reaching Bacoor, Cavite.

“There’s an alignment in Sucat, Parañaque where the project stopped, because they allegedly want it along C5, where they have properties,” Remulla said.

Based on earlier reports, the Light Rail Transit Authority is in the process of acquiring right-of-way for the second and third phases of the project.

The alignment has been affected by the construction of the C5-Quirino flyover in Las Piñas that has occupied the space intended for the LRT-1.