Near Completion: LRT1 Cavite Extension Phase 1 Hits 97% Progress

The Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT1) Cavite Extension Phase 1, a pivotal infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, has achieved a significant completion milestone of 97%. This development, as announced by the LRT1’s private operator, Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), brings the project tantalizingly close to its target of commencing commercial operations by the fourth quarter of 2024.

Phase 1 encompasses the addition of five new stations over a stretch of six kilometers through the city of Parañaque, namely Redemptorist, MIA, PITX Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, and Dr. Santos. This extension is poised to facilitate a smoother and more accessible commute for residents south of Metro Manila, bridging the gap to vital locations including the airport and the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange.

LRMC’s latest updates indicate that civil and system works are advancing at a swift pace to ensure the project’s completion aligns with the scheduled timeline. The progress rates of individual stations highlight the near-completion status of this ambitious project, with the Redemptorist Station at 93.3%, MIA Station at 93.5%, Asia World Station at 83%, Ninoy Aquino Station at 88%, and Dr. Santos Station leading at 94.1%.

These advancements are not just numbers but represent the culmination of tireless efforts by the LRMC team and its contractors. Juan Alfonso, president and CEO of LRMC, expressed optimism and pride in reaching this milestone, emphasizing the collective dedication to realizing this project that promises to connect and uplift communities.

Furthermore, LRMC detailed the progress on specific elements of the stations, including completed staircase and louver installations at Dr. Santos Station, ceiling completion and ongoing secondary steelwork at MIA Station, and the initiation of drainage works at Redemptorist Station. System works, particularly telecom installations, have been completed at some stations, with test runs of different generations of LRT1 trains underway to ensure operational compatibility and readiness.

Upon completion, the LRT1 Cavite Extension Phase 1 will extend the existing line by an additional 6.2 kilometers, expected to serve up to 600,000 passengers daily and significantly reduce travel times. While the project faces challenges, notably in the Cavite leg due to right-of-way delivery delays, the progress thus far signals a promising advancement towards a more connected and efficient public transportation system.