The completion of the first phase of Light Rail Transit Line-1 (LRT1) extension is on the right track, with the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) saying that it has now a 94.1-percent progress rate.
In a statement, LRMC President and CEO Juan F. Alfonso said the five new stations under the project will be operating by the last quarter of 2024.
Alfonso said the new stations spanning 6.7 kilometers within the city of Parañaque are covered by Phase 1 of the LRT1 Cavite Extension Project, namely Redemptorist, MIA, PITX Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, and Dr. Santos.
“We are optimistic that in less than a year, we are to begin the commercial operations of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Phase 1 Project. The overall progress rate is a good signal to usher the country into an era of modern railway experience where passengers can take advantage of world-class amenities, user-friendly and PWD-friendly facilities, high standards of safety and security, and value-added services,” said Alfonso.
The project's first five stations are presently undergoing several phases of development, including ongoing work on structural steel, architecture, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety.
Alfonso said the Redemptorist Station, which will officially open after the current Baclaran Station southbound, is now 59.8% complete.
The MIA Station, which will be the closest station to the airport, has reached 66.8% completion with the latest improvements on roof sheeting and fire pump installation.
The Asia World Station has a 54.6% completion rate and will be linked to the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) for a more seamless transfer of passengers to other modes of transportation.
Meanwhile, Ninoy Aquino Station registered a 59.3% completion rate while the Dr. Santos Station, which will be the final station for the first phase of the project, has a 71.1% completion rate.
Once completed, it will add eight more stations to LRT-1's present 20 stations. (Trixee Rosel)