By Joann Santiago
MANILA, Oct. 14 (PNA) — The government is doing its best to address the problems being faced by the Metro Rail Transit (MRT), Malacanang said Tuesday.
Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., in a briefing said Transportation and Communications Secretary Jose Emilio Abaya presented on Monday a progress report on the MRT issue to President Benigno Aquino III.
He said Abaya provided the President the programs that he plans to implement to ensure the safety of MRT-riding commuters.
These programs include the improvement of the train system’s power system, rails, and motor as well as the change in the communication system.
Coloma said any change in the MRT fare was not discussed during the meeting.
”Let’s wait for further recommendations, if any, from the DOTC regarding this matter,” he said.
”The President’s priority is how to provide concrete solutions to improve MRT services because this is what tens of thousands of Filipino commuters face everyday,” he added.
Earlier, Malacanang said any change in MRT fare would be implemented only after conducting careful studies.
Meanwhile, DOTC said it has allocated P4.5 billion to purchase 48 new coaches for MRT-3, which is plying along EDSA. The coaches are expected to be delivered to the country in 2015. (PNA)