LRT-1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) is officially rolling out its latest flagship inclusivity program, “Project PWD: Promoting Workforce Diversity.” This program marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to social integration, as it begins the deployment of persons with special needs into its station workforce to serve as Station Service Aides.
At its core, this program is a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce by providing gainful employment opportunities for persons with special needs. By empowering these individuals to take on vital roles as ambulant ticket sellers, LRMC is creating a platform where unique skills contribute directly to the community. This initiative not only champions social equity but also optimizes LRT-1’s operational efficiency; the additional support at the frontline allows for reducing ticket queues, ensuring a faster and more comfortable commute during the rail line’s peak hours.
“At LRMC, we are proud to lead the way in ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of their physical abilities. By integrating persons with special needs into our frontline operations, we are not only addressing operational bottlenecks but also fostering a culture of dignity and empowerment,” said LRMC President and CEO Enrico R. Benipayo. “Project PWD is a testament to our belief that a diverse workforce is a key driver in providing better service to our passengers, while simultaneously creating a pathway for our persons with special needs partners to achieve greater economic self-sufficiency.”
The rollout follows the formalization of a partnership between LRMC and the City Government of Manila through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The signing ceremony was led by LRMC President and CEO Enrico R. Benipayo, together with Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso, alongside Manila Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Acting Manager John Hiroshi Umeda, Jr.
Under the program, the Station Service Aides will be engaged under a part-time employment scheme. This structure requires them to work for four hours a day for a duration of less than five months.
By mobilizing this new workforce, LRMC continues to champion its mission of delivering a safe, reliable, and inclusive journey for all LRT-1 commuters, while setting a benchmark for diversity and economic empowerment in the Philippine transport industry.
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