Motoring Today Column

Aug 02, 2023

If one goes by the State of the Nation Address of President Bongbong Marcos, his administration wants to see railways systems becoming a major part of our mass transport system.

In his recent SONA, the President made a point to mention progress on projects aimed at bringing our mass transport system up to world class standards.

He particularly cited progress on big-ticket rail projects that are meant to to address traffic congestion through increased passenger and cargo capacity.

Among projects cited by the President is t he Light Rail Transit Line 1 Cavite Extension which is expected to begin partial operations by September next year that would reduce travel time between Baclaran and Sucatin Parañaque to just 10 minutes.

Also mentioned is the southern leg of the North South Commuter Railway project which he reports is now in full swing and should see travel time from Pampanga to Laguna reduced from 4 to just 2 hours in the next few years.

The President also touted progress on the Metro Manila Subway project which has now dug and built up 200 meters of the tunnel from its Valenzuelastation.

He also noted that the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 now has 36brand new train sets set to serve 300,000 passengers a day from North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan.

Railways are not the only transport modes being prioritized by the president administration.

The President's SONA highlighted are the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit that will have a 13.8-kilometer segregated lane with 17 bus stations, one terminal, and one depot and the Davao High Priority Bus Project which will have core bus network of more than 137 kilometers and a feeder network of more than 500 kilometers.

New Trains Running

Still talking about trains, the first batch of fourth generation Light Rail Vehicles arrived back in2021.

After extensive safety checks, inspections, trial runs, the Light Rail Transit Line 1 has finally begun deploying the state-of-art LRVs acquired from Mexico and Spain as part of the overall plan to modernize and extend the commuter train service to Cavite.

Manufactured by Mitsubishi Corporation and Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles of Spain , the first train set comprising four LRVs was deployed to ferry passengers on the LRT-1 on July 20.

One modern fourth-generation train set is to be added to the LRT-1 main line every week until all 30 modern train sets ordered at the cost of P12.8-billion are deployed by the fourth quarter of 2024when the LRT-1 Cavite Extension begins operations.

Already 20of the new train sets are now in the country with 10 more expected to arrive between November of 2023 and February of 2024.

In a press statement, Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the new LRVs advanced features will enhance passenger travel experience in the country's first elevated rail system.

He added that the new LRVs are equipped with an advanced passenger information system, air-conditioning, reserved areas for PWDs , while a new signaling system and upgraded brakes, will improve operational efficiency and reduce passenger waiting time at stations.

Electric Dreams

If you're looking for a hybrid vehicle for your next purchase, head over to the BGC Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater along the 5th Avenue in Bonifacio Global City and check out the Lexus Electrified Roadshow from August 4 to 6.

Lexus says the roadshow will showcase the brand's unique hospitality and the company's commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.

At the roadshow one will find showcases of the entire Lexus electrified lineup.

Lexus also promises that the roadshow will feature fun and engaging activities that complement the brand's lifestyle.

Lexusadds that associates will be available to answer questions about the cutting-edge technology under the skin of the Lexus electrified SUVs and sedans.

Guests will also be given the chance to drive the all-electric RZ 450e on Saturday and Sunday.

Those who are interested in purchasing or reserving a Lexus during the event will be given exclusive deals and giveaways.

The displays and activities will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for the duration of the event. Test drives will be from 10 a.m. to 6pm, with a last call for registration at 5 p.m.

Electric Yaris

Also at the same venue and dates, Toyota Motor Philippines will be introducing the newest addition to its local hybrid vehicle lineup - the All New Yaris Cross.

Toyotawill also be showcasing the full range of its electrified vehicles now available locally.

Happy Motoring!!!

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