Manila: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) clarified that the poor condition of the Baclaran Station of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) is the responsibility of the executives of the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), and there was no intention to humiliate or single out the Baclaran Station manager.
According to Philippines News Agency, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez called the attention of the Baclaran Station manager during his route commute on Tuesday when Lopez saw the unfinished passageway repairs that have been pending for months, slippery walkways, and the lack of water supply in comfort rooms for four years, among others.
The DOTr stated, “The Acting Secretary did not scold the station manager, but rather his remarks stemmed from his frustration and genuine concern for the welfare of the commuters and his firm expectation that all facilities meet the standards our passengers truly deserve. In no way was there any intent to humiliate anyone.”
The station manager is responsible for overseeing and ensuring that commuters are given “fair treatment” and their basic needs and concerns are met. The department emphasized that any lapses must be met with accountability, especially for those tasked with managing public transport facilities that serve thousands of commuters daily.
“Our goal remains clear and non-negotiable: to carry out the President’s directive to provide a safe, efficient, and dignified travel experience for every commuter, especially for senior citizens and persons with disabilities,” the department noted.
In a separate statement, LRMC committed to resolving the issues highlighted by Lopez “at the earliest possible time” and announced plans for comprehensive upgrades in phases across all existing LRT-1 stations. The company also emphasized its commitment to fostering a supportive and professional work environment.
Workers’ unions of the LRMC, including the National Federation of Labor Chapter 001-LRMC Supervisory Union and National Federation Chapter 003-Rank and File Union, have called on Lopez to issue a public apology following his televised conversation with the Baclaran Station manager. They argued that it is unfair to blame an ordinary employee for problems that are “clearly beyond her control.”
