LRT-1 to suspend weekend ops to hasten preps for Cavite extension Phase 1 opening

Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) holds its first successful test run on the tracks of the Cavite Extension - Phase 1 on December  19, 2023.  LRMC handout

MANILA -- The Light Rail Manila Corp said on Friday it would suspend operations of the LRT-1 for 3 weekends in August to accelerate the preparations for the target opening of the Cavite Extension Phase 1 in the fourth quarter of 2024.

LRT-1 train services will be temporarily suspended on the following weekends:

August 17 to 18
August 24 to 25
August 31 to September 1

"During these period, no commercial train service will be available from Fernando Poe Jr Station to Baclaran Station," the LRT-1 operator said.

The closure will give way to the integration of the existing system of the LRT-1 with the Cavite Extension in terms of signaling system, systems operation demonstration tests and the conduct of the necessary tests to ensure safety and reliability of the extended system, it said.

LRMC General Manager Enrico Benipayo said the system migration is a "critical step" in ensuring the safe and efficient operations of the extended LRT-1 line.

DOTR: Partial operations of LRT-1 Cavite Extension expected by October 2024

Commuters are advised to plan their trips in advance and to utilize alternative transportation options such as the EDSA Carousel and jeepneys, among others.

LRMC said it coordinated with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board for the provision of additional buses.

In a separate interview, LTFRB Chair Teofilo Gaudiz said the agency prepared an initial fleet of 38 buses to cater to affected commuters of the LRT-1 temporary weekend closure.

"Handa na po kami nandyan na po yung mga units na gagamitin nitong mga weekends. Meron na po kaming mga dinesignate na mga buses sa mga areas na hindi tatakbo ang LRT ng ilang araw para kami naman yung pupuno sa mga hindi magampanan ng LRT," Guadiz said.