On Addressing the Issues of the Philippines’ Mass Transportation System
“Mass Transport Crisis” -- a word that is widely heard by the public, which until now most of the commuting Filipinos in NCR experiences the dreaded situation of having long queues, and the seemingly uncomfortable commuting experience. Despite the continuing struggles of a commuter, promising innovations and projects in this administration are “something to look forward to”; it will showcase the world-class skills of Filipinos.
A large portion of these passengers prefer the Light Rail Transit (LRT) as it accommodates more people and is a faster means of travel for its point-to-point destinations. Transporting around 600,000 commuters around Metro Manila in a workday, the LRT Line 1, managed by the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), serves as the artery upon which the metropolis’ life force flows, giving life to its vibrant industries and business centers.
Given the flux of passengers commuting every day in LRT Line 1, LRMC provided an interactive Facebook page, where updates are seen and any customer feedback are welcomed and addressed by the company.
Since the start of LRMC's management in 2015, from the initial 77 operating (Light Rail Vehicles) LRVs, the company was able to restore trains with obsolete parts resulting in 116 operating LRVs at the present. Also, the addition of new generation trains shipped from Spain is part of the rehabilitation. It includes those belonging to the first and second generations of trains which are dated back to 1984 and 1998 respectively.
Electronics Engineers and their Roles in the Maintenance and Advancement of Rail Transits
Amid the continuous advancements in the electronic systems of the railway infrastructure, managing obsolescence is one of the challenges that the industry is facing. Obsolescence occurs when the train equipment cannot be adapted to meet new standards. To address this, rail engineers find alternative components to fit the first generations of train models. Yet, in order to ensure that the acquired parts are appropriate for the train’s form and functions, minor re-designing is needed.
Behind the innovation and restoration plans made, especially addressing the issue of obsolescence, are the country's Electronics and Communications Engineers (ECEs). The profession centers on the research, design, development and testing of electronic components used in various communications systems.
The duties and responsibilities of ECEs on the maintenance of the LRT Line 1 are classified into three fields: Electronics Laboratory, Signaling, and Telecommunications, where all of the fields are interdependent with each other.
First, the ECEs in the Electronics Laboratory are responsible for troubleshooting and repairing all defective electronic parts. A 70% of all electronic parts or modules repaired are from the rolling stocks (trains) while the remaining 30% of electronic parts or modules are repaired from the signaling and telecommunications division, and other components such as computer, elevator, and escalator parts.
The swift modernization led the country’s ECEs to contribute a number of notable innovations in the railway system. Not only that, their skills in creating their own versions of the obsolete parts also saved a lot of money for the company.
The innovations led by the LRMC’s Electronics Lab division are as follows:
The Time Relay Module is used by the first generation trains; it is installed on the lightings for emergencies and supply switching. The manufacturer declared the module obsolete. Therefore, the team created an innovation of the said module, which only costs less than Php5,000.00, the original amounting to approximately Php100,000.
The D-301 Module is a power supply pedal encoder installed in first generation trains which was already declared obsolete by its manufacturer from Belgium, A.C.E.C. However, the team was able to design and manufacture a cheaper version, minimizing the price from the original Php150,000.00 to Php4,000.00.
The Switch Module, made from Germany with its brand name A.E.G., is installed in first generation trains; it focuses on special communications for onboard trains. The components in the module were already dilapidated, resulting in the team fabricating their own simpler version of the Switch Module.
The ACCI Module is responsible for the air conditioning system of second generation trains; it has a complex board, where the ECEs program the module before installing it on trains. Likewise, the ECEs will re-program the module if trouble is found in a component from the module or in the program itself.
The Door Controller is installed in third generation trains, and responsible for the opening and closing of train doors.
The Portable Test Unit (PTU) is used to check and edit for the designated parameters. Changes made in the parameters are ensured by doing an actual testing, along with the PTU, in the train.
One of the company’s exclusive equipment in the laboratory, the ABI Board Master is used for other components that cannot be checked in a multi-tester. Those components mentioned have an intermittent condition and are considered complex.
The company also has a separate room inside the laboratory whenever they change components. They call it the “Soldering Station” or “operating room”, where the team also wears Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) needed whenever inside, since fumes are usually emitted during operation. On top of that, fume extractors are installed inside to prevent fumes coming out; they also use lead when soldering due to environmental reasons.
An innovation that needs standardizing is creating the line’s own pre-recorded safety reminders for onboard public address (PA). The project is still ongoing and prototype testing was performed in two of the line’s trains in 2019.
Test benches are used for simulating the equipment and trains to ensure its overall state. Initial testing is already done on the test bench (static testing) in the laboratory before conducting the actual testing on the train (dynamic testing), so that unnecessary additional movements and effort can be avoided if possible problems are already detected in the initial testing. They also currently created the AGATE Rack Power Supply Test Bench from scratch. It is the control of the train converter, where the 440-Volt and 110-Module test bench supplies and distributes 750 Volts for the train’s battery. And;
The Onboard Automatic Train Protection (ATP) constantly checks if the train’s speed is in accordance with the permissible speed and notifies drivers of the proper speed restriction. Improved reliability is one of the key characteristics on innovating the equipment since reports showed that most of the trains have problems in regards to its ATP. It is also noted as one of the laboratory’s first developments back then in 2015.
Each innovation takes 3-6 months from preparation to a number of testings.
Sustainability is one of their pioneers in pushing through these notable projects.
Second, the ECEs in the signaling division handle traffic to reduce potential collisions and other incidents. The whole train movement safety and its management heavily depend on the team. Currently, the line will upgrade their system to ALSTOM signaling system for the replacement of Siemens signaling system.
Lastly, ECEs in the telecommunications division manage the transportation network. Among the systems that they handle are given some of the following:
The Public Address (PA) System, which is classified into Station PA and Onboard PA. The Station PA is synchronized with all of the operations control, while the latter is installed inside the train for announcements from the driver, safety reminders, and passenger information.
Moreover, centralized CCTVs consisting of long and fixed types are installed from Baclaran to Roosevelt and in LRMC. Due to obsolescence and the outdated technology, the telephone system they use is Alcatel, formerly known as Ericson. While a Techron server Master Clock is also placed in each station to ensure its real time through a synchronized link in GPS NTP (Network Time Protocol).
Driver to driver communication is linked by TETRA (Terrestrial Trunked Radio) telecommunications. At present, LRT Line 1 is still utilizing the Motorola radio communications but is planning on upgrading it to DAMM Tetra Radio System which passed the European standards, and also has the given frequency required by National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) of 800 mHz - 854 mHz.
All of the above mentioned innovations help the personnel, technicians, and engineers to efficiently maintain and operate the trains. Since the equipment is programmed, testing it outside the lab is not necessary. Only if a problem is detected using their test benches will they send technicians to check the trains. These innovations greatly reduce costs, conserve time, and save man-power.
The Country's Future Railway Projects and How Budget Acts as the Main Limiting Factor for the System’s Enhancement
Unfortunately, even with the mentioned world-class skills of Filipino ECEs along with their efficient and effective innovations, the future of the railways as well as the whole transportation system still boils down to the country’s and company’s budget. It limits and restricts the progress being made in the system. Many of Filipino ECEs prefer the higher wage abroad, thus contributing most of their talents for the development of other countries’ transportation, rather than that of the Philippines. With these factors, it is best for ECEs to be competent, disciplined, aware of their purpose, team-oriented, adaptable, and concerned especially with regards to the country.
In addition to the issues on funds, according to Engr. Brandon F. Yap, Manager of the Rolling Stocks Division, it is much easier for a privately-owned railway to procure trains than the government-owned railways. Government-owned railways follow the Republic Act No. 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act, a set of necessary rules and regulations for the modernization, standardization, and regulation of the procurement activities of the Philippine Government.
On the contrary, future plans for its improvement in the whole railway industry were enumerated in the interview with LRMC. Such projects include:
LRT Line 1 extension from Baclaran to Bacoor, Cavite, where additional eight (8) stations will be constructed, starting from the current endpoint, Baclaran, followed by Redemptorist, MIA, Asiaworld, Ninoy Aquino, Dr. Santos, Las Piñas, Zapote, and Niog. By the end of 2021, they will let their first half of the planned stations (Dr. Santos) be operational while the latter half will still continue to expand. The said plans of extension will result in an additional 120 LRVs.
Construction of LRT Line 4, which will have an 11-km long route that was said to connect from SM City Taytay to the intersection of Ortigas Avenue and EDSA, and a transfer station will connect the line to MRT Line 3’s Ortigas station. The initial target completion date is said to be in June 2021.
MRT Line 7 construction and extension that will link from North Avenue Grand Central, Quezon City to San Miguel, Bulacan; providing an additional 6 km on the line, which will total to 22.8 km. This under-construction rapid transit line will extend and pass through the municipalities of San Jose del Monte, Sta. Maria, Pandi, Bocaue and Balagtas. It is expected to be completed by 2021 and it will open by 2022.
LRT Line 2 extension from Santolan to Masinag, Antipolo, which will provide an additional 3.9 kilometers. The so-called “East Extension Project” will install 2 additional stations: Emerald Station in Marikina City and Masinag Station in Antipolo. The said project will also have an installation of electromechanical system (EMS) in the extension line and expected to be fully completed by the last quarter of 2020.
Construction of Mindanao Railway Project (MRP). The 830-km Mindanao Railway Loop project that President Duterte envisioned for Mindanao sets out an initial development of the first phase, which will comprise of 8 stations namely: Tagum, Carmen, Panabo, Mudiang, Davao Terminal, Toril, Sta. Cruz, and Digos. The MRP-TDD (Tagum, Davao, Digos) project is expected to be fully operational in the last quarter of 2022. More than half of the current travel time will be saved, as well as improved riding experience in terms of speed, convenience and safety are also to be expected in this upcoming project. And,
Establishment of LRT-MRT common station; this 13,700 square-meter common station will have 3 areas linking LRT Line 1, MRT Lines 3 and 7, and the planned Metro Manila Subway. Area B, handled by Ayala Corporation, is nearly complete with its stunning and spacious design constructed near the corner of North Avenue and EDSA. Area A, handled by BF Corporation, already had an agreement with a private builder last February 2019, will be expected to be completed within 20 months. Area C, handled by San Miguel Corporation.
With these projects in line, the demand for ECEs and other types of engineering in the country will be higher in the coming years.
Figure 2: LRT Line 1 extension to Cavite
Photo Source: Manila Bulletin
Opportunities in Line for ECEs in the Railway Industry and the Essence of Giving Back to One’s Country
Science, technology, and engineering are vital in the growth of a flourishing country. In a fast-paced nation, the mobility of goods and people are crucial and closely tied to transportation.
Engr. Yap highlighted the importance of love for the country to all engineers and aspiring engineers. He said, “Mahalin niyo ang Pilipinas. Wala nang ibang magmamahal sa Pilipinas kundi Pinoy.” [Love your country. There are none other than Filipinos who will love the Philippines.]
Aside from competency, the love for the country is integral in solving this issue. Together with proper mindset and attitude, an engineer can make a huge difference.
”Ang ganda ng opportunities not only sa ECE, ng buong engineering, sa railways.” [There are lots of opportunities not only for ECE, but engineering in general, in railways.], he added. Yap encourages aspiring and graduating Electronics Engineers to consider working especially in the railway industry, because a lot of projects are in line in the upcoming years.
The country was the pioneer of railway transport in South East Asia and as the years progressed, the Philippines fell far behind. In terms of skills, Filipino engineers are competent worldwide. It is the time to utilize our talents here in our motherland. From Tranvias to LRT, engineers are vital in the development of the railway system and through them the glory of the once envied railway of Asia can be brought back.
Researchers:
Nina Eblamo
Kaycee Sioco
Carlo Castillo
Alliah Brillante
Sean Velasco
This third article of the TE's special reports on the country’s railway system aims to raise awareness and start conversations online on the challenges of our transport system.
References:
Abadilla, E. (2016, November 21). Profile of commuters at LRT1 unveiled. Retrieved from https://business.mb.com.ph/2016/11/21/profile-of-commuters-at-lrt1-unveiled/
bw_mark. (2019, April 16). LRT-2 east extension seen completed by end of 2020. Retrieved from https://www.bworldonline.com/lrt-2-east-extension-seen-completed-by-end-of-2020/
Electronic Communications Engineering. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://study.com/directory/category/Engineering/Electrical_Engineering_and_Electronics/Electronic_Communications_Engineering.html
Esquire Philippines. (2018, April 5). What Will Metro Manila's Railway Network Look Like, With All These Planned Projects? Retrieved from https://www.esquiremag.ph/life/travel/public-transportation-network-manila-a00203-20180405
FIRST PHASE OF MINDANAO RAILWAY PROJECT TO CUT TAGUM TO DIGOS TRAVEL TIME FROM 3.5 TO 1.3 HOURS. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://dotr.gov.ph/10-press-releases/246-first-phase-of-mindanao-railway-project-to-cut-tagum-to-digos-travel-time-from-3-5-to-1-3-hours.html
Gatpolintan, L. (2019, October 22). LRT 2 extension completion in 2020 doable: DMCI. Retrieved from https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1083930
Lazo, K. N. M., & Tmt. (2015, September 13). Aboitiz group eyes LRT 4, LRT 6 PPP. Retrieved from https://www.manilatimes.net/2015/09/13/business/aboitiz-group-eyes-lrt-4-lrt-6-ppp/218559/218559/
Manila Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) Cavite Extension. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/manila-light-rail-transit-line-1-lrt-1-cavite-extension/
Manila Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 7. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/manila-metro-rail-transit-mrt-line-7/
PRC Rail Consulting Ltd. (n.d.). The Railway Technical Website. Retrieved from http://www.railway-technical.com/signalling/
RA 9184. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2003/ra_9184_2003.html
Rey, A. (2019, February 13). Contract signed for EDSA side of MRT-LRT common station. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.rappler.com/business/223403-dotr-bf-corporation-sign-contract-edsa-side-mrt-lrt-common-station-february-2019
Rodriguez, M. (2019, December 17). Heads Up, Commuters: The MRT-LRT Common Station Is Shaping Up. Retrieved from https://www.spot.ph/newsfeatures/the-latest-news-features/80256/mrt-lrt-common-station-area-b-a4362-20191217
Stacy, M. (2014, May 14). Managing obsolescence. Retrieved from https://www.railengineer.co.uk/2014/05/14/managing-obsolescence/?fbclid=IwAR15sNeA90P1gIf4C5eSTAMPoX0dOnO4HR0IrVhcfQ6NCIJZe6PBygINYew
Unite, B. (2019, May 7). Work on LRT-1 extension to Cavite begins. Retrieved from https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/05/07/work-on-lrt-1-extension-to-cavite-begins/
