President Rodrigo Duterte led on Thursday afternoon (July 1) the inauguration of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 2 East Extension Project that is expected to cut the three-hour Manila to Antipolo travel time to 40 minutes.
The Marikina-Pasig and Antipolo stations were added to the line through the four-kilometer project, which is expected to begin operating on July 5. The trip fare between the two stations will be waived during their initial operating days.
“The opening of the two additional LRT stations — one in Marikina and another in Antipolo, would increase the line’s daily capacity by 80,000 passengers… Indeed, this project will improve mobility and ensure transportation connectivity, especially in the busy part of Metro Manila.,” Duterte said.
“Let me assure you that we will fully reap the benefits of the Build, Build, Build program as we continue to overcome the pandemic, and gradually reopen our economy,” he added.
The extension project, which he called “one of the hallmarks of this administration’s strong commitment to provide a better transportation system” has generated at least 1,800 jobs.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive called on Senator Manny Pacquiao to do his job at the Congress and prove his corruption claims against the current administration.
“If you are a champion in boxing, it doesn’t mean to say that you are a champion in politics,” he said. He then asked why the senator only began talking about the issue now.
“Magtrabaho ka. Hingi mo ‘yan. Nandiyan ‘yung mga papel. Start investigating. Do not go elsewhere. Comply first with your duty as a senator. Tapusin mo ‘yan, nandiyan ang mga papeles. Huwag kang pa-absent-absent,” he said. – Report from Mela Lesmoras/AG- jlo
