DOTr to conduct random COVID-19 antigen testing on MRT, LRT passengers 

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced it will begin random antigen testing on commuters taking the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT), in an effort to monitor the level of COVID-19 presence among commuters taking the rail lines. 

Commuters taking the MRT and LRT lines can volunteer for random antigen testing 

This comes as Metro Manila has been placed under the more stringent Alert Level 3 status, following the recent increase in COVID-19 cases over the holiday season. 

“The random antigen testing of consenting and volunteering passengers is intended to guide us in the adoption of any further needed measures,” said DOTr Undersecretary for Railways TJ Batan. “Passengers who volunteer to be tested will be permitted to proceed with their trip after testing and will be informed of their test results by text message.” 

According to DOTr Secretary Art Tugade, there will be no change in the current passenger capacities allowed on rail services, to prevent crowding of passengers at rail stations. “As recommended by our railways sector, all rail lines will maintain the present 70 percent passenger capacity under the Alert Level 3 status, provided that strict health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 will be enforced,” he said.  

Current passenger capacities will be maintained for now 

Train marshals will be deployed to enforce minimum health protocols among passengers inside the station premises and on the trains. These measures include physical distancing and wearing of face masks. Talking, eating, and use of mobile phones inside trains will also be prohibited. 

The DOTr has ordered regular disinfection of all rail facilities, including trains, platforms, stations, and depots, as well as the continuation of contact tracing measures. Apart from passengers, all rail personnel have also been ordered to undergo antigen testing, in accordance with existing Department of Health (DOH) protocols. Construction workers and other personnel working in ongoing rail projects will be subjected to similar measures, including the administration of vaccines and booster shots. 

Personnel working on other rail projects will also be subject to health measures

Tugade added that the 70 percent maximum passenger capacity on public utility vehicles (PUVs) will remain in the National Capital Region to keep pace with the demand for public transport services. Any adjustments or changes in regards to maximum passenger capacity in PUVs will be upon the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). 

Meanwhile, MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos announced that Metro Manila mayors have agreed that unvaccinated individuals are not allowed to go out of their homes, except for essential trips.     

There’s nothing random about our mobility updates at Philkotse.com.