Improvements to MRT system to be carried out soon, says Palace

Metro Rail Transit (Gil S. Calinga / PNA)

MANILA — The prototype coaches for the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) are arriving and will be tested to improve the rail system in Metro Manila’s major thoroughfare, a Palace official said.

“I think what the DOTC said is that the prototypes are coming. So they are going to be shipped to Manila to be tested,” Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a radio interview on Saturday.

Valte said over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan that buying new coaches for the MRT is not like purchasing something from a hardware and putting it in use immediately.

The prototype has been made and waiting to be delivered and will be tested if it fits the MRT system.

“Assuming that everything works and fit for our system, then that’s when we can procure the additional ones,” she said.

With regards to the charges that some quarters wanted to be filed against Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, Valte said the transport chief is ready to answer the possible charges against him.

“Handa namang sumagot si Secretary Abaya when it comes to matters that are under the DOTC (Department of Transportation and Communications), especially when it comes to legal processes,” Valte said.

“At least it will be a chance for him to air or to ventilate his side on that issue.”