The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has emphasized that the recent fare increase for Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), effective April 2, 2025, is essential for sustaining operations and funding long-term expansion projects. This adjustment marks only the second fare change in over a decade.
Transportation officials have highlighted that the fare hike is critical for maintaining LRT-1’s efficiency and ensuring the timely completion of its extension to Cavite. This extension is expected to alleviate congestion and provide a faster commuting option for thousands of passengers traveling between Metro Manila and Cavite.
While acknowledging concerns from groups planning to appeal the fare increase, the DOTr maintains that the adjustment is a long-overdue measure aimed at ensuring the rail system’s sustainability. The additional revenue generated will be allocated toward infrastructure improvements, system maintenance, and the Cavite extension.
Authorities noted that the approved rate is significantly lower than the initial proposal submitted by the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), which originally sought a ₱20 hike. The new fare rates set by DOTr’s Rail Regulatory Unit include a boarding fare of ₱16.25 and a distance fare of ₱1.47 per kilometer. This approved fare adjustment matches the 2022 application stated in the concession agreement with the government.
Despite potential opposition from commuters and advocacy groups, the DOTr assures the public that the fare increase is necessary to maintain and improve LRT-1 services. Commuters are encouraged to view the increase as an investment in better services and an expanded rail network that will ultimately enhance public transportation accessibility and reliability in the region.
