More Commuters Allowed on MRT, LRT Starting Oct. 19

More people will be allowed to ride the MRT, LRT and PNR trains starting Monday, as part of effrots to kick-start the economy. Authorities at the same time reminded commuters to follow COVID-19 prevention measures while on board.

From Oct. 19, the train systems will operate at 30% capacity, which will be gradually increased to 50%, the Department of Transportation said in a statement. This means that for the MRT, there will be 372 passengers per train set from 124 or 153 passengers instead of 51 per car, the agency said.

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On Sunday, the DOTr placed social distancing markers in side the trains to guide passengers. From one meter, the physical distancing requirement was eased to one-seat-apart. However, commuters must wear face masks and face shields and avoid talking and eating while on board the trains.

Since Friday, the government has eased several restrictions on movement: teens and seniors can now run errands, foreign travel for leisure is allowed and shopping malls can hold sale events.