DOTr deploys discounted bus service to ease LRT-2 congestion

The Philippine Department of Transportation will introduce a temporary bus service with discounted fares starting Wednesday, November 4, to provide relief for commuters facing capacity constraints on the LRT-2 line. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon announced the measure after visiting the LRT-2 Antipolo station, where he highlighted the inadequate number of train carriages operating on the route.

The supplementary bus service will deploy 20 vehicles to accommodate passengers unable to board the light rail trains during peak hours. Officials said the initiative aims to bridge the gap between passenger demand and available LRT-2 capacity while the railway system operates with its current fleet.

The LRT-2, which spans 13 stations from its terminus points, has faced persistent overcrowding issues attributed to aging trains and limited carriage availability. The DOTr's bus subsidy program represents an interim solution as authorities work toward expanding the line's rolling stock capacity.

The reduced fares on the supplementary bus service are expected to encourage commuters to use the alternative transport option, thereby distributing passenger loads more evenly across the transportation network serving the eastern portions of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.