The Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3 has suspended the policy on hand-carried passenger luggage, a decision recognizing the comfort and welfare of commuters. This follows concerns raised by Transport Secretary Vince Dizon, who emphasized the need for a policy that would not add to the burden of passengers.
MRT-3 general manager Michael Capati said that management is reviewing the luggage policy to ensure it aligns with the needs of the commuting public. “The MRT-3 management assures the public that their inputs are always considered in crafting policy decisions,” Capati said.
The policy shift is part of broader efforts by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to improve the commuter experience. Recently, the DOTr extended the MRT-3 operating hours by an additional hour to accommodate more passengers. Additionally, the deployment of extra trains has been ordered to address long queues at key stations during peak hours.
The MRT-3, which runs from North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft in Pasay City, continues to operate well past its design capacity. While the system was initially built to accommodate 350,000 passengers per day, it now serves over 500,000 daily riders.
The changes, particularly the suspension of the hand-luggage policy, are seen as a positive step in ensuring that MRT-3 remains a more efficient and passenger-friendly mode of transportation for the ever-growing number of commuters.
