LRT-2, MRT-3 offer 50% discount on fares

MANILA, Philippines — Starting March 23, the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) will give passengers a 50- percent discount on fares, the Department of Transportation announced yesterday.

The DOTr said this is in line with President Marcos’ directive to find ways to help ease the burden of commuters.

Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the train fare discount would be a big help for passengers.

“The government is doing everything to alleviate the burden of Filipinos amid the war in the Middle East. We want to assure the public of continuous travel and affordable fares,” Lopez said.

Amid soaring fuel prices, Lopez said commuters would save more by taking the trains instead of using their cars.

The 50-percent fare discount for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and students remains in effect.

Regular passengers can use the blue beep cards and the 50 percent discount will be automatically deducted.

Passengers without beep cards may avail themselves of single-journey tickets with 50 percent discount as well.

The DOTr said it is in talks with the Light Rail Manila Corp., which operates the LRT Line 1, for the provision of fare discount to commuters. – Andrew Ronquillo