Could the LRT extension turn the minds of Filipinos into accepting a Marcos president? 

Nearly two years after Ferdinand Marcos Jr. accepted his presidency, it’s safe to say that citizens are wary of the new president, reminded of the traumatic events caused by the Marcos regime. The people have been talking, and they’ve been following along carefully, waiting for signs of another misfortune. Unexpectedly, however, a new project has arisen that could soften the hearts of many Filipinos. After all, how could you deny something as efficient and cost-effective as a train that could travel through nearly the entirety of NCR? 

Last November 7, 2024, during a press briefing at Malacañang Palace, the Department of Transportation announced a new project, the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) Cavite Extension as an early Christmas present to train commuters from president Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s administration. The first railway project to be completed under his term, Phase 1 of the LRT-1 Cavite extension has established five new stations: Redemptorist-ASEANA, Manila International Airport Road, PITX (Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange), Ninoy Aquino Avenue, and Dr. Santos (or Sucat).

From Phase 1 of the LRT extension, the line’s former length of 20.7 kilometers has now been increased by six kilometers, making its total length come up to 26.7 kilometers. 

This extension, with the five stations added, has made it an easier, speedier journey between Baclaran, Pasay, and Bacoor, with the travel time being reduced to 25 minutes from a lengthy 1 hour and 10 minutes. Along with its speed, the trains now accommodate an added 80,000 passengers daily. Talk about a glow up!

Additionally, Phase 2 and 3 of the LRT-1 extension will  start construction by the end of 2026, due to utility relocations and the challenge of rerouting electricity lines and water systems. Phase 2 will usher in the Las Piñas and Zapote stations, while Phase 3 will be this extension’s final stop, initiating with Niog station in order to give access to LRT-1 to Bacooreños. 

With the successful inauguration of Phase 1 of the LRT Cavite extension on November 16, 2024, one question remains. Could this mean a bright future for our transportation? Though the future cannot be foretold, the present can be said for. Because of this extension, many commuters are grateful for a means of easier transportation, as traffic congestion and the steadily increasing fee of several public transit are challenges that people face everyday just to get to school or work. 

Students especially benefit the most from this new development, as most to and from Metro Manila to attend their universities and schools as most of them are located in the heart of NCR. 

Overall, this LRT-1 Cavite extension is a relief to the woes of commuters and regular passengers, as the extended route will make it more convenient and accessible for many citizens who struggle everyday, regardless of who made this possible.