IFC exec lauds LMRC’s effort to rehabilitate 35-year-old trains

International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) highest ranking executive has lauded the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) for successfully rehabilitating its 35-year old trains for the Light Rail Transit line 1 (LRT-1).

French economist and IFC executive Philippe Le Houérou described the trains of the LRT-1 as “good quality” when he reviewed and assessed the railway’s operations and maintenance works.

LRMC President and CEO Juan Alfonso said on Monday that the company has always been transparent to officials regarding the trains’ conditions.

“This is in line with our policy on transparency and commitment in ensuring the right strategy for the LRT-1 Cavite Extension project and other improvement programs for the train line,” Alfonso said in a statement.

“The occasion was a good opportunity for us to show how we have improved the riding experience of our passengers. These are direct effects of the successful PPP program of the Philippine government working with the IFC,” he added.

According to data from the LRMC, the number of trains in the line expanded from 77 to 112, while the number of trips increased from 505 to 554 daily since it assumed operations in 2015.

The LMRC also noted that it had extended its operating hours to assist more passengers and to lessen queueing time in stations.

IFC is a global financial institutions working with the private sector in emerging markets and countries. /ee

READ: LRMC signs P450-M deal for train rehab, upgrade