The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes the completion of the rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) line. The transit line now features more operating train units; upgraded signaling, communication and CCTV systems; and, escalators and elevators in all stations have also been repaired. To celebrate the completion, the government also announced free MRT-3 rides for the public from 28 March to 30 April 2022.
Commuters in Metro Manila will benefit from the improved MRT-3 given the continuous rise in gas fuel and the higher costs of public transportation. It is especially timely during this period of transition as workers are returning to their physical workplace after almost two years of blended work scheme due to the pandemic.
The improvement of the MRT-3 is also expected to increase train speed and reduce long waiting lines as arrival intervals has been improved to 8 to 10 minutes. CHR is hopeful that the upgrade will translate to a more efficient way of traveling long distances. To ensure equal access and opportunity to basic services for the vulnerable sector, such as Persons with Disabilities, it is also crucial provide and conduct regular maintenance of facilities that cater to the unique needs of these sectors. We hope that more people will be encouraged to take the MRT-3 to help reduce the number of private vehicles on the road thus helping alleviate the traffic situation as normalcy resumes.
The right to mobility, which includes the right to travel safely, conveniently, and reliably, is an essential right that impacts the daily lives of ordinary Filipinos. It profoundly affects an individual’s quality of life. It is also a significant factor for economic development.
CHR looks forward to the completion of more rehabilitation work and projects related to our transit and transport systems. We also call for the passage of Senate Bill No. 1064, otherwise known as an Act providing for a Bill of Rights of Commuters, Promoting Safe and Accessible Public Transportation, in order to provide more concrete solutions in increasing the efficiency, comfort, and security in public travel.
Investing in our transport system is a concrete way to alleviate the daily struggles of Filipino workers towards upholding their welfare and dignity while also ensuring the country’s economic goals.