Dalian trains returning on MRT-3 tracks this month

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December 2, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The China-made Dalian trains are set to return on the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) tracks in time for the Christmas rush, with the government rushing to test the trains for deployment on the line.

Acting Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez yesterday said the DOTr is working to get the Dalian trains back on the MRT-3 line this December.

Last week, Lopez rode one of the Dalian trains that were tested to personally inspect the safety functions of the unit prior to deployment.

The DOTr will test two more Dalian train sets in the coming days.

Lopez said operating the Dalian trains would help minimize waiting time for passengers, especially during peak hours.

But he said it is important for the DOTr to test the Dalian trains first to ensure these would have little to no downtime during actual operations.

Lopez said the Dalian trains can accommodate up to 1,156 passengers per car once operational, with each of these running on a three-car configuration.

“This is a Christmas gift from President Marcos to commuters. That’s why we are rushing to deploy the Dalian trains on the MRT-3,” Lopez said. “It would be a big help to commuters if the Dalian trains are back in service, as these can hold more capacity per car.” Ghio Ong