The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Thursday that the first phase of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 Cavite Extension is set to open as early as this month.
“We will open this line within the next two to three weeks, definitely within November,” said Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista.
Developed through the Public-Private Partnership program, Phase 1 of the extension will connect Baclaran Station in Pasay City to Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque, providing a significant boost to Metro Manila’s public transport network. The new segment is expected to reduce travel time by up to 30 minutes, benefiting thousands of commuters daily.
“We hope that this extension will help ease the heavy traffic in the area, allowing us to support additional passengers taking LRT Line 1. This is our early Christmas gift to the residents,” Bautista said.
Once operational, the extension will accommodate an additional 80,000 daily riders in its first year, increasing the total ridership of LRT-1 that currently stands at 323,000 daily commuters.
LRMC President and CEO Enrico R. Benipayo expressed excitement about the upcoming opening, emphasizing the broader economic and environmental benefits. “This project will bring significant advantages to commuters, including reduced travel times, improved air quality, and economic growth in the region. We are thrilled to mark this milestone, which reflects our commitment to providing world-class transportation for Filipinos,” he said.
The LRT-1 Cavite Extension Phase 1 includes five new stations: Redemptorist-Aseana, MIA Road, PITX, Ninoy Aquino Avenue, and Dr. Santos (formerly Sucat). The remaining stations, including those in Las Piñas and Niog, are expected to be operational by 2027.
In collaboration with the DOTr, Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), and various local government units, LRMC worked to ensure the successful integration of the new line. Current preparations include system integration, the commissioning of new train sets, and rigorous operational readiness tests.
The full 11.7-kilometer LRT-1 Cavite Extension, spanning eight stations, will eventually connect Baclaran to Bacoor, Cavite, enhancing transportation options for residents of Metro Manila and Cavite.
