In a move to significantly improve the travel experience for commuters, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) today announced the deployment of K-9 teams across the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2), and Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) systems. This initiative, undertaken in compliance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for better public service, aims to enhance both passenger safety and convenience.
During a press briefing at Malacañang on Friday, DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon highlighted the dual benefits of integrating K-9 units into the rail network. “The K-9 sniffing dogs are a very important intervention,” Secretary Dizon stated, explaining that their presence will minimize the need for extensive prior screening, which currently adds to passenger travel time. Simultaneously, these trained K-9 teams will bolster overall security within the public transport system.
Secretary Dizon shared his personal experience as a testament to the expected improvements. He recounted a previous commute on the MRT-3 Taft station in March, where he experienced a queue of over 30 minutes at 6 A.M. Following recent interventions, including the removal of X-ray screening devices and an increase in train frequency, his recent queuing time was reduced to a mere 5 to 7 minutes. “I was truly surprised,” Dizon said, “this is a sea-change for our people daily.”
The initial deployment of the K-9 teams will commence at MRT-3 stations, followed by their integration into the LRT-1 and LRT-2 lines. Secretary Dizon personally inspected a K-9 training academy in Clark, Pampanga, to ensure the readiness and effectiveness of the dogs.
Secretary Dizon reiterated the DOTr’s commitment to President Marcos’s vision of improving public service and reducing travel time for commuters. “If we can make it even faster, if we can eliminate queues, that is what we will do,” he affirmed.
