Realizing– from experience of course– the surge in commuter traffic from rush- hour Christmas shoppers, those entering and leaving Metro Manila for the Yuletide break and those attending numerous Christmas parties that raise demand for ride-hailing taxis, motorcycle taxis and plain taxis and the irritating habit of cabbies to choose the passengers that would give them better premiums in fare and tips, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has adjusted the train schedules to ensure that people can reach their destinations with ease, convenience and safety.
The DOTr announced it revised the operating hours of Metro Manila's major train lines to better manage the expected increase in commuter traffic during the holiday season, reported Milyonaryo.com.ph .
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the new schedules would provide greater convenience for passengers while also allowing rail workers more time with their families.
“On select days, our trains will operate earlier and later to accommodate more passengers during the holiday season. These changes will also give our employees more time to celebrate the holidays with their loved ones,” Bautista explained.
Starting December 16, MRT Line 3 will operate earlier and extend its hours until December 24 and on December 31. The first train will depart North Avenue station at 4:30 a.m. with the last commercial train leaving North Avenue at 10:34 p.m. and Taft Avenue at 11:08 p.m.
LRT Line 2, running from Antipolo to Recto, will begin adjusted hours from December 17 to 23, with the first train leaving at 5 a.m. The extended schedule will also apply on December 24 and 31. Regular hours will resume from December 25 to 30, and January 1 onwards.
LRT Line 1, from Dr. Alejo Santos Station in Paranaque to Fernando Poe Jr. Station in Quezon City will begin adjusted operating hours on December 20. The first train will depart at 4:30 a.m. on December 20, 23, and 26-27, with the last trains leaving Dr. Santos at 10:30p.m. and FPJ Station at 10:45 p.m. on December 20 and 23.
The DOTr advises passengers to check updated timetables to ensure proper planning of their trips. It aims to provide smoother travel experiences during the peak holiday season while maintaining a balance between commuter demand and employee welfare.
As for the dawn or early morning schedules, it is better to start shopping or meeting friends and families outside earlier than tarry when everyone else rushes out for the day.
Better for everyone to heed this new schedule and not leave all at the same time from malls and shopping centers, otherwise the last trains would be full-packed and might not be able to accommodate everyone.
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