Free rides offered after MRT-3 glitch

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation offered free rides to commuters after a train glitch disrupted the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 operation yesterday.

The MRT-3 management said the rail line started offering free rides at 12 noon, with maintenance provider Sumitomo Corp. shouldering the cost.

DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez directed MRT-3 general manager Michael Capati and Sumitomo to investigate what caused the technical glitch.

“The MRT-3 and Sumitomo have to explain why the disruption occurred. It caused inconvenience and hardship for passengers who rely on the MRT-3,” Lopez said.

Sumitomo Corp. apologized over the incident.

The MRT-3 implemented limited train service, looping from North Avenue to Shaw Boulevard stations, after a technical issue occurred between Buendia and Guadalupe stations at 5:30 a.m.

According to the passengers, they were held inside the trains for 40 minutes before they were instructed to walk along the rail lines.

The MRT-3 management resumed normal operation at 6:57 a.m.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority deployed buses to transport stranded passengers. – Josiah Antonio