The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) on Wednesday belied accusation that the latest train fare increase was due to the awarding of the P64.9-billion LRT1 Cavite Extension project.

DOTC Spokesperson Michael Arthur Sagcal told Manila Bulletin Online that the proposed P5 fare increase has been pending even before the bidding for the LRT-1 Cavite Extension PPP Project.

“It is completely separate from the project and is not dependent on it. The proposal has undergone two public consultations in 2011 and 2013, and is only waiting an implementation date,” Sagcal said in a text message.

Sagcal also refuted claims that the fare increase would take effect next month.

He added that the “P11+1 formula will translate into an average P5 increase for the average trip of an average rider.”

Meanwhile, Sagcal said the DOTC is complying with the remaining Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) law requirements to finalize the concession agreement.

“The process we conducted was fully in accordance with law,” Sagcal said noting that the DOTC will continue with the remaining steps as long as there is no court issuance preventing it.

“We owe it to riding public, especially those who will finally be given convenient and affordable access to opportunities, to proceed,” he added.

Sagcal said the department expects to award the project within the week.

The P64.9-billion LRT1 Cavite Extension Project is one of the public-private partnership ventures of the current administration.

The southern part of Metro Manila and neighboring Cavite province is home to around 4 million people.

 

09 July 2014

By Mary Rose A. Hogaza