What Readers Should Know
The LTFRB is studying special Antipolo–Recto bus routes with designated stops near LRT 2 stations. The proposal aims to provide alternatives during congestion and train disruptions, with operating details yet to be announced.
Key Takeaways
- The proposed bus routes would connect Antipolo City and Recto Avenue.
- Designated pickup and drop-off points would be located near LRT 2 stations.
- The study responds to overcrowding and long queues during rush hours.
- The LTFRB is coordinating with the LRTA and plans consultations with six local governments.
- No launch date, fares, operators, or final stops have been announced.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board is studying special bus routes between Antipolo City and Recto Avenue in Manila to give LRT 2 passengers another transport option during overcrowding or train disruptions.
The proposed services would have designated pickup and drop-off points near LRT 2 stations, following a concept similar to the Edsa Busway.
The routes remain under study. The announcement does not include an implementation date, fare schedule, list of operators, or final bus stops.
An alternative during rush hours
According to the LTFRB, the study responds to reports of long queues and overcrowding at LRT 2 stations, particularly during morning and afternoon rush hours.
Congestion can extend beyond platforms into lower station levels and nearby streets, adding to the difficulty of daily travel for students and workers.
LTFRB Chair Greg Pua Jr. said the agency wants to develop routes that give passengers more ways to reach their destinations.
“Our goal is to come up with new routes that will serve as alternative modes of transportation for the passengers,” Pua said.
Locating bus stops near train stations could make the proposed services accessible to passengers who encounter crowded stations or interrupted operations. Their effectiveness will depend on the routes and operating arrangements developed through the study.
Coordination with the railway and local governments
The LTFRB has begun coordinating with the Light Rail Transit Authority, which operates LRT 2, to assess how the bus services could complement the railway.
The regulator also plans to coordinate with the local governments of Antipolo, Pasig, Marikina, Quezon City, San Juan, and Manila along the corridor.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Lopez earlier instructed the agency to explore special routes with designated boarding and alighting points near LRT 2 stations.
While the proposal draws from the Edsa Busway concept, the announcement does not specify dedicated bus lanes or a final operating setup.
What commuters can expect
The study focuses on creating an alternative for passengers when rail travel becomes difficult. It does not announce a replacement for LRT 2 services.
For now, commuters will need to wait for further details before planning trips around the proposed buses. Final stops, schedules, fares, and a start date have yet to be announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the special bus routes already operating?
No launch has been announced. The routes are still under study.
Where would the buses travel?
Between Antipolo City and Recto Avenue in Manila.
Where would passengers board and alight?
The proposal calls for designated points near LRT 2 stations, but final stops have not been announced.
Why is the LTFRB studying these routes?
To provide alternatives when LRT 2 is congested or train operations are disrupted.
Have fares and schedules been released?
No. The supplied announcement does not provide fares, schedules, or an implementation date.
Gabriel
Introvert, wanderer, blogger, foodie, a hip-hop music writer, and one of the co-founders of a tech start-up company called GigsManila.
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