By: Jia Erikah Fajardo
Artwork by: Joaquin Ivan Amor /The LANCE
Every morning at 4:30, the doors of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) open to welcome the first batch of commuters, marking the start of another journey. Also known as the Green Line, it is considered by many to be an indispensable service, ferrying students, workers, and families all across Metro Manila. But amidst the clatter of its wheels and the rhythm of the daily hustle and bustle, a pressing concern looms: the recently proposed fare hike by the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC). This potential increase has reignited conversations about accessibility, affordability, and equity—matters that are urgent yet difficult to discuss.
The LRT-1 has long been a cornerstone of Metro Manila’s public transportation, connecting the southern and northern parts of the urban jungle and enabling many communities to traverse the streets without having to own private vehicles. Established in 1984, it is Southeast Asia’s first light rail system and remains a vital artery, withstanding the test of time.
The LRT-1 currently spans 25 stations from Fernando Poe Jr. in Quezon City to Dr. Santos in Parañaque, serving nearly half a million commuters every day.
Although crucial for travel, to Filipinos, it is not merely a means of getting from point A to point B. It is an intersection of lives— a moving tapestry of stories from every corner of the nation’s capital. It serves as the backdrop of their daily plight as they navigate today’s fast-paced, often unpredictable, and ever-changing world.
Not only is it a mode of transportation, the LRT-1 is also a witness to the Filipinos’ unwavering determination and unbreakable spirit.
The Fare Hike Petition
In recent weeks, news of a pending fare hike has dominated national headlines. On social media accounts of outlets such as that of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, reports on the matter have garnered a range of reactions—mostly laughter and sadness—reflecting the netizens' skepticism with the proposal.
A Top Gear Philippines article outlined the reasons behind the petition for a fare increase according to the incumbent CEO and president of LRMC, Enrico Benipayo. The justifications include upgrades to the rail line and its facilities, the ongoing construction of the first phase of its Cavite Extension, and improvements in travel times and headway intervals.
Benipayo expressed that the company has been dedicated to investing in the LRT-1. He stated, "We committed to infuse capital, improve the system, build the Cavite extension, and in return, of course, it’s either a fare increase or, if the fare increase is not granted, then the government will support or pay," as quoted in an article from ABS-CBN News.
If the proposal is approved, LRT-1 riders will see a noticeable increase in their travel costs as early as April.
The train’s base fare would rise from P13.29 to P18.15, and the per-kilometer charge would jump from P1.21 to P1.65. For those traveling the full route of the line, for their end-to-end journey, P15.00 would be added to their fee, amounting to at least P58.00.
According to LRMC’s estimates, their petition would cost the average commuter an extra P7.48 per trip—an increase that might seem minor at first glance, but over time, could significantly impact LRT-1 regulars.
The Concerns of Commuters
For many, the LRT-1 is preferable because of its convenience and accessibility. Requesting anonymity, one student opened up about their reasons for choosing to ride the train: "It’s just a 10-minute walk from my home, another 10 minutes to school, and it takes me about 15-30 minutes of travel time… I [also] avoid the heavy traffic, which is a huge benefit."
When asked about the proposed fare hike, they expressed disapproval, stating, "I oppose the possible price hike because, first and foremost, there’s no clear explanation for it. The public might think it’s for the personal interests of the owners.” They then added that, “Not all commuters can afford such a price hike, and some may stop riding the LRT if it gets too expensive."
As a commuter on a fixed budget, they thought that the fare increase could pose a financial challenge. Although they would rather adjust their spendings than change modes, they acknowledged that it could make the train less reliable for others. "It could hinder those who truly cannot afford the fare, preventing them from enjoying the benefits of riding the LRT-1," they noted.
Gabby Balcos, a 3rd-year Journalism student, had similar insights, citing accessibility behind his choice to travel using the LRT-1. Likewise, he spoke from experience and communicated that, “It's the most accessible mode of transportation considering where I live. I live around the Balintawak area, so the LRT station is just one tricycle away…”
When asked about the proposed fare hike, they voiced their objection: “I strongly oppose because… seven pesos is a very considerable amount considering that most of LRT riders are students or workers that are earning the minimum wage…” Moreover, he explained that,“That significant price hike is very anti-poor and something that doesn’t seem to be really thought of by those in-charge.”
Despite his viewpoints, Gabby also does not see himself changing modes of transportation should the fee increase push forth, emphasizing his previous statement, saying, “We are fortunate enough to be studying in Letran— studying in a private school— so riding the LRT is probably affordable to us, but again, the bigger picture is that it is anti-poor, and it affects most of our fellow Filipinos.”
The Insights of Experts
Science, Technology, and Society instructor, Mr. Mark Francis Astom, provided an expert’s perspective, providing thoughtful commentary on its role and impact on urban commuting. His analysis explored various aspects of the LRT-1, shedding light on its significance to regular passengers and the broader transportation landscape.
He likewise observed that the LRT-1 has been a preferred mode of transportation for many, himself included, due to its convenience: "The LRT provides faster travel time compared to jeepneys, and it allows passengers to avoid the stress of traffic congestion.” He also mentioned the affordability of the LRT, noting that it makes the train a better choice for many commuters.
In line with this, when given a prompt regarding the ability of the ordinary commuter to afford the LRT-1 should there be a fare hike, he remarked, "A ten-peso price increase would surely be a pain on one’s wallet, especially if we consider daily commutes going to and from a location.”
Lastly, when asked about his thoughts on how the ridership of the LRT-1 would be affected by the increase, Mr. Astom answered that riders could possibly explore more affordable options. “In my opinion, a lot of commuters would most likely seek other cheaper alternatives, even if they cost them time and energy. Those who can’t afford the price hike may shift to consistently riding jeepneys instead,” he hypothesized.
With Mr. Astom’s guidance in understanding the present and foreseeable future of LRT-1 and its stakeholders, Inst. John Renzo Espinosa, a faculty member in the Political and Legal Studies Area and the current Area Chairperson of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) at the Colegio, provided further recommendations and insights.
Regarding factors policymakers should consider when deciding on public transportation price hikes, Mr. Espinoza explained that, “Maraming underlying factors... Kung titingnan natin ‘yung socio-perspective… Number one, poverty. Rampant na siya, nagiging cycle… Kung political, pwede nating tingnan na, yes, the government can argue na kailangan… pero nakaka-ilang taas na sila… Tingnan [din] natin ‘yung economic perspective— magbigay tayo ng trabaho.”
Following this, when asked about steps the government can take to soften the possible impact of fare increases on lower-income and vulnerable populations, particularly students. “...Isa sa mga pinaka-effective na gawin is consultation talaga,” he pointed out. “I agree sa government and operators ng LRT-1 na kailangan talagang i-improve… ‘yun kasi yung argument nila… pero kung ganoon kataas… mag-compromise— and magagawa lang ‘yon kung may proper dialogue with the stakeholders involved.”
If the situation really calls for a fare hike, Mr. Espinoza suggested making the increase gradual. “Magkaro’n tayo ng trench. Hindi isang taas. Paunti-unti.”
He also acknowledged the possibilty of the fare hike hindering students from accessing education. Calling them to action, he implored them to be wiser: “‘Di natin pwedeng isisi lang or ibigay ‘yung responsibilidad fully sa mga estudyante, pero it’s a call for them to become more responsible… Whether we like it or not, in the future, you must stand on your own…”
He continued, saying that although students must step up, “‘Di natin pwede i-alis ‘yung responsibilidad ng gobyerno para sa mamamayan na magbigay ng dekalibreng public transportation…”
In concluding his interview, Mr. Espinoza ended with, “Kung may hamon tayo sa students na maging responsable, may hamon din tayo sa government na ibigay sa taumbayan ‘yung dapat ay sa taumbayan.”
What now?
While hearings and deliberations are underway, the fate of the LRT-1 remains uncertain. In the meantime, commuters like Gabby Balcos can only hope for a resolution that prioritizes what is truly best for all, not just a select few.
As the LRT-1 hangs in the balance, one critical question persists: When progress comes at a cost, who should truly pay the price?