BIZ BUZZ: New LRT-1 ‘driver’
Enrico Benipayo has taken the driver’s seat at Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC)—the private operator of Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT 1)—after being appointed president and CEO.
He replaces Jose Ma. Lim, who now serves as chair of the company’s executive committee.
Prior to his promotion, Benipayo was the general manager of LRMC, monitoring the daily operations of the railway. He was also the company’s chief operating officer before this.
“A seasoned rail industry veteran with over 35 years of experience in engineering, procurement, construction, maintenance, and O&M (operations and maintenance) consultancy, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role,” LRMC said.
As the new top honcho, Benipayo’s first major task is to start the operations of LRT-1 Cavite Extension Phase 1, which is set to welcome passengers this fourth quarter.
LRMC already integrated the existing system of LRT-1 with the Cavite extension line in August. It also conducted system operation demonstration tests and continues to evaluate the safety and reliability of the railway extension.
This segment includes five stations: Redemptorist, MIA, Asia World, Ninoy Aquino and Dr. Santos.
In its entirety, the 11.8-kilometer extension project—which covers major cities such as Quezon City, Caloocan, Manila, Pasay and Parañaque—starts at the Baclaran station of LRT 1. It is designed to cater to up to 800,000 passengers daily.
