ACTING Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez expressed his dismay over the dilapidated condition of the LRT-1 Baclaran Station during an inspection on Tuesday, ordering the private operator of the LRT-1, Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), to complete repairs by December 2025.
The inspection was part of Secretary Lopez’s weekly commute, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to assess the state of transport hubs and ensure the safety and comfort of commuters. Lopez began his commute at the LRT-2 Antipolo Station and transferred to the LRT-1 at Doroteo Jose Station, heading towards Baclaran.
During the inspection, Secretary Lopez criticized the station’s lack of accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens. He noted the dirty conditions, closed passageways, and unfinished walkway construction. He was also dismayed to learn that the station’s restrooms have been without a water supply for four years. “Are passengers supposed to fetch water with buckets? Four years without water! If there’s a problem, let’s find a solution,” Lopez said.
The Secretary also witnessed a PWD struggling to navigate the station’s slippery floors and steep stairs. He questioned the station manager about the lack of maintenance and cleaning personnel. Lopez emphasized that commuters deserve a comfortable and well-maintained station, regardless of its age. He also expressed his frustration with the delayed construction of the passageway, which began in March 2025 and has left passengers with limited access to the station.
Secretary Lopez immediately instructed Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) Administrator Hernando Cabrera to oversee LRMC’s efforts to improve the Baclaran Station. He also directed a study on the feasibility of installing elevators to improve accessibility for PWDs and senior citizens. LRMC has been given until the end of the year to complete the necessary repairs and improvements.
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