Senator Poe supports privatization of MRT-3
MANILA: Senator Grace Poe believes that privatization of the Metro Rail Transit (MRT-3) would increase its operating efficiency.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
What is Sen. Grace Poe's recommendation regarding the privatization of MRT-3?
Sen. Grace Poe said that the concessions of MRT-3 should be fairly awarded through public bidding, to a reputable and financially sound firm with experience in operating trains and other public transportation systems and a proven track record of providing efficient service.Is the government selling the concessions of MRT-3?
The DOTr recently clarified that the MRT-3 and other rail services in the country are not for sale although its operations and maintenance may be entrusted to qualified private operators.Poe cited the Light Rail Transit, as well as the train systems in Japan, which are privately owned.
“I agree that the MRT operations should be privatized. As we’ve seen in the past, political interventions have caused more problems and inefficiencies to the MRT operations,” Poe stated.
Poe, who heads the Senate Committee on Public Services, said concessions should be transparent and thoroughly examined if the government decides to push for its privatization.
The senator said that it should be fairly awarded through public bidding, to a reputable and financially sound firm with experience in operating trains and other public transportation systems and a proven track record of providing efficient service.
She added that in order to avoid unjust and excessive price increases, the government should also have “some control” over the establishment of the fare matrix.
“The riding public’s welfare, convenience, and safety should be the priority,” Poe said.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) recently clarified that the MRT-3 and other rail services in the country are “not for sale” although its operations and maintenance may be entrusted to qualified private operators.
Railway services in the National Capital Region, such as the LRT-1, LRT-2, and the MRT-3, will continue to receive government subsidies, according to DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, in order to keep “fare levels affordable.”
Photo by Kap Maceda Aguila
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