The MRT-3 resumed operations on July 13, following a 6-day suspension to test workers for COVID-19.
To recall, several of the train line's personnel contracted COVID-19, prompting management to halt operations to have staff undergo RT-PCR swab testing, the gold standard in COVID-19 testing.
The MRT-3 needs 1,308 personnel to resume daily operations, and MRT management said 2,103 workers underwent testing for COVID-19.
According to MRT-3 operations chief Mike Capati, of the 281 personnel who tested positive for the virus, only 1 developed symptoms. The remaining 280 are under quarantine.
Those who reported for work at the MRT-3 wore personal protective equipment. Passengers were also required to undergo thermal scans, wear face masks at all times, and oberve proper social distancing in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
A total of 14 trains started running as early as 5:30 a.m., down from the 16 to 19 that ferried passengers earlier this month. Said train carriages will be disinfected frequently.
Though the trains are back and running, the MRT management's MRT-3 Bus Augmentation Program will be retained. The 90 buses deployed last week will still be plying the roads to assist passengers on their daily commute. Buses leave at 3-minute intervals, with operations starting as early as 4 a.m., up until 9 p.m.
