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Art by: Angelo Written by: aiglatson Through the years of being a colony, from the spanish colonial era up to today’s neocolonialism, we grew tired of resisting. We have lost our voice. It can be observed how we devolved from being the “Katipuneros” to this “adaptive” and “blind follower” country that we are now. We are becoming the enemies of truth, Albert Einstein would say, yet we are encouraged to stay as one amid the pandemic. As Filipino citizens, we should review the services we are being offered and make sure we are not receiving just the bare minimum. Thus, speaking up and criticizing doesn’t make us less of a Filipino, in fact, it makes us more Filipinos because we are fulfilling our constitutional duty. Like what Thomas Paine, a political theorist, writes, “It is the duty of a patriot to defend his country from his government.” It may not be straightforwardly seen, but when we speak up and criticize, we are giving voice to the lost, last, and least. We are letting them be heard. We are encouraging them to demand what they deserve. And since the ability to criticize is also a privilege, we should use it to serve the mass and seize all available platforms to amplify the voice of the marginalized, and fight with them. Through criticizing and (sadly) social media pressure, dialogue among different sectors became possible. The agricultural sector is doing its part by providing markets and consumers for the farmers amid the lockdowns. The spiritual sector is providing shelter and food for the homeless. The educational sector suspends face-to-face classes to ensure the students’ safety. Private sectors are teaming up to execute donation drives and fund-raising events online. Although criticisms could be taken as something negative, it is necessary. As Winston Churchill said in New Statesman, criticism is the same function as pain in the body. It brings our attention to the parts where there is an imbalance or unhealthiness, so we can prevent further damage; if it is repressed, distemper will surely follow. When we do not give attention to a body part that feels pain, it can turn into a serious disease. The same way goes for society. When we do not listen to the mass’ questions, inquiries, and cries, people will resort to revolt and insurrection. Criticism is not persecution. It should not be taken as an attack. It should be seen as an eye-opener, given that these should come from our love of country and fellow citizens, not from competition and party difference. Otherwise, the very essence of being critical will be turned to hate. When we speak up, we fight back.

Art by: Raiselle Sales Written by: Kevin Yee A sheet of paper, pristine white. I began to write in colorful inks. But, what should I write? I let the words flow in multiple links. Ambiguous, unorganized, yet free. Soon the paper was filled with words. Words that made sentences. And sentences that created paragraphs. The sheet no longer pristine white, for the stroke of ink gave it life. My hand stopped; the pen suspended midair. Eyeing the lines of ink, I thought: “what am I missing?” And so, I struck words in various spots changing them, rewriting them fair. Rummaging the depths of my soul, I looked for what words to write to fill this gaping hole of this sheet born out of plight to make it truly whole. I kept searching for what words to fill this blank space within. What words will resonate? To spark a flow, a rhythm that builds what is missing. I write and erase, and write, and strike, and write. Hundreds or thousands of words, maybe one of them was the answer to fill this null. Yet I struck them before I can read what outcome it may have been. And so, I write again No erasures No strikeouts I will let the ink flow and see what answers this prose will show.

Art by: Moesha Cordez Written by: Raisa Ramos Seeing poverty that comes like a thief Forcefully suppressing the people’s belief Stealing freedom and guarding like a chief Unceasingly contributing to everyone’s grief But despite the aching hearts and rising fear Despite being in the chaotic atmosphere Despite seeing the skies that are still not clear Thrive to be led in the light to adhere Cling to the light that gives wisdom Wisdom that gives patience to overcome Overcome the day and the succeeding days to come Come in the light that brings enlightenment to everyone So take a little time to slumber Take a little rest that seems not to bother Take a little prayer and hope to utter Gather strength to unceasingly conquer Conquer those who speak empty promises Those who desire nothing but power to possess Those who are esteemed by blind praises Those who pretend they have peace in their faces Look no longer to the half-filled glass with envy Avoid the narrowness that portrays it as half-empty Acknowledge your assets and use it efficiently To fight with morality and fight for liberty Go and take faith as your main weapon Recognize that strength coming from education Advance more in disseminating information And leave no excuse to conceal inaction

Art by: RAZ Written by: aiglatson In these trying times where we are at war with COVID-19, it is very convenient to say that we should all just help each other, hold hands, follow the government’s directive, puke a big deal of inspirational quotes, and call it “our way of helping”. And since people are now working and studying from home, the internet is bombarded with tons of posts regarding the pandemic. At a glance, these posts can be described as “too much” but in reality, it is nothing but mere vain and meaningless “neutral” chat. Being neutral is one mess of a privilege, especially being able to still be one amid a pandemic. Most people hush when they have all they need, even wants. People with eyesight don’t complain about being blind. People with enough savings don’t complain about being broke. People with enough food on their plate don’t complain about hunger. Many say that we should not make the pandemic political. But isn’t it already political? Doesn’t it demand political discussions? Isn’t it handled by politicians rather than medical professionals? It is the crisis that exposes the people’s rights in which the 21.6% of the Filipinos, living below the poverty line, don’t experience. We are receiving the bare minimum, sometimes hardly nothing. No concrete plans and just vague blabber during presscons, and we choose to shut up and remain neutral? It must be the convenience that shuts us up and clogs our throats. This neutrality, too, brings us the illusion that we are preventing the chaos of being critical, or as many people tag it, “complaining”. We tend to think that we are doing the “right thing” because of our silence. But man are we wrong. Not taking the side of the oppressed means taking the side of the oppressor, no matter how neutral we say we are. In Paul Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed, he emphasized the importance of fighting with the marginalized, alongside them, and not for them. Otherwise, we remain as oppressors. “Happy thoughts” alone will not help us win this battle. Speaking out will. So as much as it is beautiful to say that we should “remain calm and think positive” and “trust the process,” we should face the fact that false positivism is ugly. In fact, it is as ugly as this pandemic. It takes away the people’s freedom to fight for their rights. It hinders change. It stops the dialogue. Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist and a holocaust survivor writes that we don’t get to choose our struggles, but we get to choose how to respond to them. And as we are at war with something we cannot see, we should at least demand for the rights we are born with. We are not “staying positive” in the midst of chaos. We should not be settling for less. No more sanay na. Enough with ganyan na talaga eh. We are called to criticize. Because when we shut up, we give up.

Written by: Mary Andrew Dalogdog After the rumored pandemic starter, “bat soup” meal, went viral, a virus emerged in Hubei province and was identified as “SARS-CoV-2”, which was then confirmed to have carried the “novel Coronavirus” (nCOV), known today as “Coronavirus disease 2019“ (COVID-19). This disease, unlike other common respiratory diseases, spreads faster within just days. Its victims can either be showing grieve symptoms or can be asymptomatic (no symptoms are shown). Thankfully, there are people (doctors, nurses, medical staff, and even engineers) who dedicate their lives and work tirelessly as front liners in fighting the COVID-19 crisis. Engineer Joseph Torres, an alumna of the Mechanical Engineer Department Batch 2013 of University of Santo Tomas, is one of these people who continues to dedicate his life to slow the spread of the pandemic in the country and the world. He works at a Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical Equipment company, and among his many accomplishments, he was able to create a “Containment Barrier Isolator” (CBI-III). This equipment is intended to facilitate the isolation of a product or specimen such as virus samples or an entire process. It can be utilized for several applications and provides a sterile or aseptic environment inside its chamber through bio-decontamination and air filtration. “The unit that I mechanically designed is specifically catered to provide personnel protection by maintaining the aseptic environment and as well contain the virus/harmful substance inside with negative pressure. It can contain biologically hazardous substances classified up to Biosafety Level Three (BSL-3) such as yellow fever virus, SARS Coronavirus, Mers-Corona virus, COVID-19, and tuberculosis bacteria.”, Engr. Torres in his interview with Thomasian Engineer. In this way, scientists can handle and test the virus safely without harming themselves. The invention can be used in developing a vaccine or an alternate cure for the said pandemic.

The Philippines isn’t just facing a pandemic right now. Arguable claims — that misinterprets factual news — plague social media platforms as well. Cartoon By: Ferdinand Laurente Opinion By: Caster John Tabora Being able to read this article means that it is more likely that you are blessed to have access to the internet. While I highly encourage people to use such privileges to our kababayans advantage by being vigilant to the administration’s system of governance, one must ensure that his/her claim(s) does not misinterpret facts. With Covid-19 lying around, people are at a heightened stress as a lot are continuously bombarded with tons of news. It is no surprise that the majority resorted in concluding based on a trending tweet. Twitter, a social media platform that allows one to reach many users quickly through tweeting and retweeting, determines trending tweets by using an algorithm based on who you follow, your interests, and your location that identifies topics that are popular at that very instant. These trending tweets introduces “supposedly-non-existent-problems'' on current issues. Take a news media company, for instance. Despite providing complete coverage of a press conference, there is still overlooked information by the masses. This happens whenever a controversial-one-line-tweet trend and tweet(s) related that’s not under a thread go unnoticed. People tend to conclude solely with the trending statement as their basis, regardless of how the whole presscon went. Claiming without basing in a complete, factual information is as potent as the coronavirus. Remember the time when people continuously ranted about how the gov’t cut the budget of the Department of Health by 10 billion Pesos? The budget was not cut and in fact raised in the final, approved budget. People had overlooked the latest news and continuously backed their opinions with false information without even knowing (READ: https://bit.ly/2vF6E8G and https://bit.ly/2QG9T79 ). Continuing such practice would spread fake news even faster than Coronavirus. Unfortunately, catchy headlines may pose a problem as well. Headlines may possibly be of another context, compared to the article itself. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with catchy headlines, however, reading the headline without checking the article won’t let you understand the whole context. Not reading the article itself is an act of ignorance, thus, your claims with misinterpretations may be regarded as fake news. You spread misinformation when you criticize without knowing the whole context first. Without getting to the whole context of the issue, I am certain that one will misconceive the issue itself. A 280-character trending tweet isn’t enough to explain what happened to the whole press conference. A five-to-ten-word headline isn’t sufficient as well to understand why a #ProtectVico article is trending. If one continues to be insensible of what he/she fights for, fake news will always exist. Understand the whole situation before creating a stand. News media companies archive all their articles. Read from multiple sources to validate your stand. Or better yet, read newspapers. Watch the television. It would help a lot to understand the whole situation. Other types of media will be your front liners against fake news. Social media is a powerful tool, yet it still holds risks for people. In an endless battle among the keyboard warriors, know that it is never a wrong thing to voice out opinions, however, it may, if you carry on with your ignorance. Misinterpreting the issue will always follow ignorance. The internet is a heck of a big library, it wouldn’t hurt to back your claims first to avoid misinterpretation’s bigger pal, the fake news.

Poem by: Jhannah Soriano Art by: Roselle Andrea Santiago Hiwain nang malillit ang mga pagsisisi (bawang, at sibuyas) Gisahin hanggang lumambot at bumango. Mag-ingat sa mantika at tandaan na nakaraan mo lamang iyon. Pagkatapos ay isabay na ang mga sakit na idinulot sayo (manok o baboy) Hayaang maluto hanggang wala nang pula ang karne at ikaw rin ay naghilom Lagyan ng tig-kalahating tasa ng inis at pagod (toyo at suka) Dagdagdan ng lungkot at takot (paminta at laurel) Haluin lahat ng pinigilan mong luha (tubig) At pakuluin hanggang Napatawad mo na ang iyong sarili. Isa-isahin mo Ang mga pait sa mundo kaya mong hiwain, pakuluin at magluto ng masarap na adobo.

Written by: ACT Cartoon by: MAD In this time of “strangely empty streets”, a clashing sound from the pincers of crabs is very audible. An insecure (king) crab tends to think for itself and drag everyone down, rather than fulfilling the very essence of its leadership – to rightfully influence others. Unfortunately, this metaphor resembles those in higher social class and power. Only the elites (and their families) have the ability to climb up the social ladder, and access what should be a right to the public. People in (and with) power can easily take anything with their pincers. However, doing so, restrains the people living underprivileged to collectively suffer, and even face death. In Noellen Delos Santos’ The View from Taft, this mentality of “pulling down” others interferes to progress in all segments of the society, across the nation. As it cultures envy, individuals with this mindset treat people succeeding as a threat, assuming they are failing. This then leads to the disruption of harmony in relationships. Clinching the success of people around hinders the path to progress, entrapping everyone in a stagnant growth. A retrogressive nation is deeply rooted in crab mentality. Never be a “crab” just to pull down someone to be at the top – or in this case, never cut the line just to be at the front of the queue.

By MAD March used to be that time of the year when students, teachers and parents looked forward to the end of the academic year. Students were excited to graduate and parents were happy to see their dreams become a reality. Sadly, COVID-19 robbed them of such excitement and elation like a thief in the night. Now, they fear for their lives and that of their loved ones. What could have been a batch of hopeful graduating students are now terrified grad-WAITING students. They wait for the morning to come soon when this thief has already gone and they are unscathed. But as they lie in wait, they prepare themselves for its aftermath. They continue studying their lessons, they catch up on their projects and they do their research. Most of all, as they wait, they reconnect with their families and with God.

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/

Indexes of advancements in a country can be notably seen among the rise of competitiveness, the better utilization of its precious resources, and the easy access to quality education. The Philippines was the pioneer of the modern street-then-electric-powered interurban rail service in South East Asia during the 1920s. Up to this day, the railway system is an essential means of transporting products and daily commuters alike, as it has been in the past years. For more than decades, railway transport is an essential part of the Philippines’ socio-cultural development. In 1875, the Administracion de Obras Publicas (Public Works Administration) declared a royal decree, Formularios para la Reduccion de los Anteproyectos de Ferrocariles, that listed construction details and standards such as the width of tracks, angle of earth embankments, and stipulations on land values and labor of the streetcar system. This decree was made into action by the La Compania de Tranvias de Filipinas, handled by Jacobo Zobel y Zangronis and Adolfo Bayo, where it provided transport services using five streetcars initially. Ferrocarril de Manila-Dagupan enabled easy access to transportation from Manila to Malabon and vice versa. The project was completed in the year 1894, with 29 stations along the then 1140 kilometer route. During the 19th century, the Americans introduced an overhead trolley system, while the Manila Electric Railway and Light Company (MERALCO) took over the company’s property which later on introduced the idea of a Metrorail system -- a feasible solution to the public transport problem that eventually became the predecessor to the Manila Light Rail Transit (LRT). LRT was known as the pioneer in South East Asia, ironic when compared to how the country’s falling behind on mass transportation trends and problem-solving. LRT consists of two lines: Manila Light Rail Transit System Line 1 (LRT 1) and Manila Light Rail Transit System Line 2 (LRT 2). LRT 1 was initially operated by the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), a government-owned company created on July 12, 1980. However, on September 12, 2015, the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) took over its operation and maintenance. LRMC is a joint venture company of Ayala Corporation’s AC Infrastructure Holdings Corporation (AC Infra), Metro Pacific Investments Corporation’s Metro Pacific Light Rail Corporation (MPLRC), and the Philippine Investment Alliance for Infrastructure’s Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) PTE Ltd. (MIHPL). LRT 1 is also the first and only railway system in the Philippines to have met the international standards in Quality Management (ISO 9001:2015) and Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001:2015). LRT 1 is one of the busiest among the four railway transportation systems in Metro Manila together with Manila Metro Rail Transit System Line 3 (MRT 3), LRT 2, and Philippine National Railways (PNR). LRT 1 comprises 20 stations: the route stretches from Baclaran to Roosevelt Station, operating every day from 5:00 AM to 9:30 PM. Initially, LRT 1 only had a length of about 13.95 km and extends from Baclaran, Pasay City to Monumento, Caloocan City, but was extended an additional 5.7 km elevated line after the LRT North Extension Project, a construction from Monumento Station of LRT 1 to North Avenue of Line 3. As of 2019, 28 to 30 trains are operational during peak hours. From 77 coaches in 2015, it increased to 116 coaches at present which accommodates an average number of 600,000 passengers daily. With the company’s ongoing restoration of trains, it is expected to have a steady increase in capacity that will benefit the public. Currently, there are three generations of rolling stocks running: Generation 1 procured from Belgium in 1982, Generation 2 acquired from Korea in 1998, and Generation 3 obtained from Japan in 2006. In the recent interview with LRMC, it is said that there will be additional trains coming from Spain that will be described as Generation 4 trains. Since the corporation currently operates three types of trains, another way to notice the difference aside from its physical aesthetics are the numbers placed on both sides of the train. The first two digits represent the generation of the train. Figure 1: Front View of First Generation Train of LRT Line-1 Figure 2: Side View of First Generation Train of LRT LIne-1 The figures shown above are the first generation trains of LRT Line 1 that are currently operating. The side of the train has the first two digits “10” placed on the side, indicating that it is a first-generation train. The second and third generation trains have “11” and “12” placed on both sides, respectively. Carrying passengers from Baclaran to Roosevelt, it is inevitable to encounter daily issues during the operations and maintenance in the line. Passengers raise their issues through emails, text messages, telephone calls, and social media posts to the Public Relations Division which brings up their concerns about the issues that are being encountered in the railway transport. Being in service for more than 30 years, LRT 1 has been the talk of various newspapers, media networks, and social media platforms. It has been criticized for its train delays and arrivals, crowd control, and technical glitches. However, these concerns stem from the shortage of trains and their obsolescence. On Commuters’ Daily Struggles Crowd control has always been a concern on LRT 1 discussions for platforms overcrowd during peak hours. This occurs particularly from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM every day. Concerns about the delay of trains and arrivals are also up for discussion. Due to the large number of passengers that the LRT 1 accommodates daily, the train delays contribute to the high influx of passengers in different stations as well as the congestion in the rolling stocks. The delays usually occur due to technical problems such as signaling, track system, power supply, or even some acts that the passengers attribute like activating door levers and warning buzzers, standing near the door hindering the boarding and alighting of passengers, leaning on train doors, and lack of running trains. Additionally, the current numbers] of trains are not enough to cater to the heavy volume of passengers, especially during peak hours. On Obsolescence of Trains The issues aforementioned all boil down to the obsolescence of trains. Some parts and equipment of LRT 1 from 1984 are still being used up until now. It has been a long time since the system was established. Some parts and equipment are declared obsolete which means that it is no longer produced, and considered outdated by the original manufacturers. This greatly reduces the efficiency of LRT 1. A single train is composed of two to four Light Rail Vehicles (LRV’s), and the current number of LRV’s are not sufficient to cater to all the passengers. In an interview with LRT 1, it is said that the first and second-generation trains are considered obsolete. Also, the majority of second-generation trains are down and under rehabilitation which would take two years to finish. The dilemma of the daily commuters patronizing the service of LRT 1 is as difficult as the people behind the operations and maintenance of the railway company, the engineers. Last January 15, 2020, Thomasian Engineer visited LRMC’s Electronics Laboratory, the control system of Line 1. The brains of the depot are mostly Electronics and Communications Engineers (ECE’s) who play a huge part in the functioning of the railway, particularly in troubleshooting and repair of all the electronic parts that are defective or obsolete. They were mainly responsible for the restoration of Generation 1 trains, and continuous research to find solutions and innovate machines and equipment necessary for the advancement of the services provided by LRT 1. Engineering greatly changed the course of advancements in our society through buildings, infrastructures, and transportation. Engineers have a big role in making the lives of people easier through their innovations. They can best carry out its social purpose when they are involved in the formulation of the response to a social need, rather than just being called to provide a quick technological fix (Bugliarello, 1991). The ECE’s importance in the field is crucial for the everyday operation of LRT 1, wherein thousands of people ride. Aside from ensuring efficiency, their number one priority is the safety of the riders. Thus, carrying out the roles of an engineer is a challenge for the ECE’s in LRMC specifically in creating long-term solutions. With the approach of advancements, problems are inevitable to encounter. The Philippines may have fallen far behind when it comes to railway systems but it is never too late to rise once again. Under the current administration’s Build, Build, Build Program, engineers will be once again playing a vital part in carrying out the plan to be a success. They are needed in uplifting the transportation crisis the country is facing. A more productive railway system equates to faster mobility of people, products, and services creating a big push to the Philippines' economy and tourism. Amidst the obsolescence of trains, there is still a ray of hope along the rails. Through engineers, the railway was made possible in the Metro and it is also through engineers that will bring back the glory of LRT. 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. Researchers: Nina Eblamo Kaycee Sioco Carlo Castillo Alliah Brillante Sean Velasco Cinematographer & Editor: Lyle Ong Produced by: Michael Dunuan References: Avillano, L. (2014, November 16). The Compania de los Tranvias de Filipinas. Retrieved March 6, 2020, from http://kulturang-noypi.blogspot.com/2014/11/the-compania-de-los-tranvias-de.html Common LRTA passenger complaints: GOVPH. (2014, August 27). Retrieved from http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2014/08/27/common-lrta-passenger-complaints/ LRT 1 Route: Time Schedules, Stops & Maps - Roosevelt. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://moovitapp.com/index/en/public_transit-line-LRT_1-Manila-1022-9968-237345-0 LRT Manila Office: LRT Manila Office: Light Rail Manila Corporation. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://lrmc.com.ph/company-profile/Orosa, R. L. (n.d.). Timeline: LRT, MRT construction. Retrieved from https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/07/19/987621/timeline-lrt-mrt-construction Pate, A. J. (2017, August 31). LRT-1 gets ISO certification. Retrieved from https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1008175 Paz, C. D. (n.d.). LRT1 operator completes restoration, vows more daily rides soon. Retrieved from https://www.rappler.com/business/172246-light-rail-manila-lrt1-restoration-daily-rides Read "Engineering as a Social Enterprise" at NAP.edu. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nap.edu/read/1829/chapter/10#81 Read "Key Transportation Indicators: Summary of a Workshop" at NAP.edu. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nap.edu/read/10404/chapter/5#23 User, S. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.lrta.gov.ph/index.php/company-profile

Written by: Jhoana Fidel Photo by: Jayvee Fulgencio November 20, 2019 — The UST Faculty of Engineering Team A ranked 2nd Runner Up in UP Circuit’s intercollegiate category in “squEEEze: The National EEE Competition and Convention” last November 9. Senior Electrical Engineering (EE) students Austine Rico Wong and Christian Sales, and Senior Electronics Engineering (ECE) student Ryan Rey Corpin, composed UST’s Team A. Instructors Engr. Reymond Serafica from the ECE department and Engr. John Carlo Perion from the EE department were the team’s coaches. The team, even though faced with struggles in preparation for the quiz show, garnered nine points in the final round and managed to a podium finish among 10 competing schools after a three-year dry spell in the competition. "squEEEze" is a national competition organized by students that focuses on electronics and electrical engineering and has various categories such as high school quiz bee, college quiz bee, circuit sprint, and technological design contest.