The scheduled test run for the LRT-2 East Extension in Antipolo and Marikina was postponed to a later date to prioritize the safety of train staff and passengers, the Department of Transportation said Monday.
A foreign expert tasked to inspect the line's overhead catenary system tested positive for COVID-19, prompting management to forego the test run, a DZBB report quoted Transportation Usec. for railways TJ Batan.
First scheduled to open in April, transport officials moved the formal inauguration to June 23 as COVID-19 restrictions limited final works. Apart from foreign experts facing travel bans and equipment being shipped in later due to tighter border control, several LRT-2 staff also tested positive for the virus.
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"Following a railway sector meeting held prior to the Holy Week, it was decided to reset the inauguration date to protect the health and safety of rail workers and the riding public," the Department of Transportion statement said.
