We’re sorry. But it’s not our fault.
That sums up the message posted today by the Department of Transport (DOTr) which was addressed to people who were affected by the MRT-3’s water leak, which came from its airconditioning unit (ACU). In its apology, it said that the ACU of the MRT-3 has not been overhauled by its previous maintenance provider, but it will soon be replaced by new units.
The statement released is in light of a video post that appeared yesterday showing train passengers holding umbrellas to protect themselves from water gushing from the MRT’s ceiling.
Some passengers could be seen in the background trying to avoid the “mini-shower.”
A woman named Giselle Tolosa posted the video, which was immediately shared by a newspaper’s Facebook account.
In her post, Tolosa wrote the caption: “You’re surprised noh. You thought you were at [the] Wild River [theme park ride]. Lol. ”
Lol indeed, with the state this public mode of transportation is in.
Majority of the netizens who saw Tolosa’s original post were amused.
In its Facebook message, the DOTr wrote that the MRT-3’s ACU were last replaced in 2008. The next overhaul should have happened in 2016, but the old maintenance provider failed to do so.
Its message read: “As of Nov. 2017, when DOTr terminated MRT-3’s previous maintenance provider, only 3 out of MRT-3 72 train cars have been overhauled.”
DOTr assured the public that the ACUs have already been purchased. “ACUs from original equipment manufacturer (OEM) are among the components that were already procured by MRT-3’s transition team earlier this year. Brand new OEM ACUs are hence scheduled to start arriving this month.”
As in previous instances, DOTr’s Facebook followers appear supportive.
One Malaya De La Cruz wrote that people are “overreacting” over the existence of the mini-shower and that water leaking from ACUs are normal. She wrote: “The important thing is there is no unloading and the train’s door isn’t open.”
Another supportive follower blamed the administration of former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino for the leaking ACU. Wrote Mark Banag: “[T]hank you for keeping it working inspite of the PNoy Admin’s mess.”
Bob Dela Rosa, however, believes that DOTr can do better. He wrote: “Make our transportation system in the Philippines world-class, so that we can catch up on neighboring countries. [You’re all] corrupt.”
Another suggested refunding those affected by the leak.
Have you ever experienced a leaking MRT train? Tell us by tweeting to @CoconutsManila.
