Manila's Seniors and PWDs Enjoy New 50% Train Fare Discount

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

Senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Metro Manila are celebrating a welcome change: a 50% fare discount across all major train lines, namely LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3. This initiative, launched by President Marcos at the MRT-3 Santolan-Annapolis Station, aims to alleviate travel costs for these groups.

Prior to this, students were granted a similar fare discount in June. Marcos highlighted the importance of extending this benefit, saying, “We will include senior citizens and persons with disabilities who can avail of the 50% discount." Approximately 13 million senior citizens and 7 million PWDs stand to benefit from this new scheme, which increases their previous statutory discount from 20% to 50%.

Simultaneously, three previously idle China-made Dalian trains began their long-awaited commercial operation. These trains, part of the 48 purchased in 2014 from CCRC Dalian Co., had been sidelined due to compatibility issues with the MRT-3 rail line. President Marcos expressed satisfaction at finally putting these resources to use, asserting, “It’s nice to see that our funds didn’t go to waste."

To overcome the operational hurdles, CCRC Dalian Co. made necessary modifications at no cost to the Philippine government, assisted by technical evaluation from German firm TUV Rheinland. Further safety checks and compliance measures were conducted by Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation, the current maintenance provider for MRT-3.

With full deployment, the Dalian trains, each capable of carrying up to 1,200 passengers, are expected to significantly alleviate congestion on MRT-3, which currently transports about 380,000 passengers daily. The new trains will reduce train intervals from 4 minutes to 2.5 minutes, enhancing efficiency.

This combination of fare discounts and improved train services marks a significant stride in improving public transport in Metro Manila. The government’s efforts promise a more accessible and manageable commuting experience for seniors, PWDs, and students alike. As the initiative unfolds, the capital's residents hope for continued improvements on their daily transit journeys, fostering greater inclusion and mobility.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-07-16