LRT2 East Extension installs Japan Train System

On April 16, Ambassador Koji Haneda, together with Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade and other guests, attended the ceremony marking the installation of the electro-mechanical train system for LRT Line 2 East Extension in Cainta, Rizal.

This undertaking is part of the ODA loan “Capacity Enhancement of Mass Transit Systems in Metro Manila Project” with provision of up to 43.3 billion yen (20.6 billion pesos).  Rail tracks as well as electrical and mechanical systems, developed utilizing Japanese expertise from years of railway experience, will be installed in the 4-kilometer east extension of LRT2 in order to address the worsening congestion in Metro Manila caused by poor public transportation network and the rising population.
 
During the ceremony, Ambassador Haneda stated that “It is such an opportune time to give a further boost to LRT-2, unlocking the potential of this heavy rail by extending it to the east and providing improved access and better services to more commuters.  I am much delighted that we are in this collaboration to develop this line again.” 

It will be recalled that the initial construction (1996) and operation (2004) of LRT2’s existing 11 stations was developed and financed with Japan’s support under the Metro Manila Strategic Mass Rail Transit Development Plan.  Japan’s support for the East Extension is in recognition of the role and importance of efficient transport networks in achieving economic development and raising the living standards of the Filipino people.