MANILA – The planned mass lay-off of over 100 or 20 percent of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) workforce has been put on hold, according to the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), the operator and maintenance provider of the rail service.
In a statement on Thursday, the LRMC said while the basis for its retrenchment program “remains legally valid,” it has decided to suspend the mass lay-off and will instead “recalibrate” its strategies to continue supporting its personnel and the government.
“The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has also pledged to support LRMC and find equitable solutions to support our employees during this difficult time,” the LRMC said.
It has also announced that there will be company-wide testing for the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) from August 14 to 19 (Friday to Wednesday) following DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade’s call for their workers to undergo such tests.
“This is also part of LRMC’s preparations as it anticipates the resumption of LRT-1 operations once the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) is lifted in Metro Manila,” the LRMC said.
On Wednesday, the LRMC announced its planned mass lay-off that was scheduled to take effect September 15 due to a 90-percent decline in the ridership of the rail service caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.