MRT 3 to proceed with scheduled shutdown

MANILA, Philippines — After being deferred by recent typhoons, the MRT 3 on Saturday said it would start the scheduled weekend shutdown of its operations from Nov. 28 to 30, as part of the massive rehabilitation and maintenance of the rail line.

The temporary shutdown of MRT 3 operations will give way to the turnout of Japanese firm Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at Taft Avenue station.

It includes the repair of the 34.5 kilovolt alternating current switch gear and turnouts in the station, which would require a three-day closure of the entire rail line.

Once the turnout is completed, train speed is expected to increase from 50 kilometer per hour (kph) to 60 kph in December.

—Mariejo S. Ramos