QUEZON CITY — The Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) is set to extend its route to Manila Pier, adding three new stations as part of its west extension project.
Administrator Atty. Fernando Cabrera announced that this initiative aims to enhance connectivity by linking the train system directly to the ferry terminal, facilitating smooth transfers for passengers.
“We are looking at two projects: the west extension, which will add approximately 5 kilometers of track leading to the Pier, plus three new stations,” Cabrera explained.
“The current endpoint of Line 2 is at Recto, and the new terminus will be located within the Pier itself, allowing ferry passengers to board the train directly,” he added.
The extension will include additional stations connecting Divisoria and Tutuban to the Pier.
Efforts to improve train operations have resulted in an increase in the number of operational train sets from 10 in 2023, with one more unit currently under repair.
Cabrera noted, “We’ve increased the number of train sets from six or seven to ten, with one more being fixed, making it eleven. Each train set consists of four passenger coaches.”
To prevent project delays, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has prioritized securing right-of-way acquisitions and relocating utilities and informal settlers in affected areas.
“While funding is still being finalized, we are using available resources to acquire the necessary right-of-way, ensuring the project is ready for swift implementation once full funding is secured,” he said.
The LRT-2 administration has reported significant improvements in reducing train disruptions, with monthly system malfunctions decreasing from 15 to 20 incidents to as few as 0 to 4. In some months, no interruptions were recorded.
To accommodate the longer route, five additional train sets will be procured as part of the west extension project. Cabrera emphasized, “When you extend the line, you need to increase the number of trains to manage the longer travel distances.”
The expansion of LRT-2 aligns with the government’s broader railway development efforts, which include upcoming projects such as the Metro Manila Subway, North-South Commuter Railway, and MRT-7. (JCO/PIA-NCR)