26 October 2023, MANILA, Philippines – LRT-1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) partners with Renacimiento Manila, a cultural organization that holds regular walking tours in the City of Manila, in launching the LRT-1 Heritage Transit Tour to promote urban tourism by riding LRT-1 and exploring important historical spots near LRT-1 stations.
The LRT-1 Heritage Transit Tour aims to promote Manila’s rich cultural heritage through one of its most vital mass transit systems, the LRT-1.
Participants of the tour will visit select LRT-1’s historic routes with a meet-up point at Central Station then ride the train going to the following: Vito Cruz Station for an exploration of Calle Vito Cruz landmarks; Carrriedo Station to rediscover the old downtown area of Manila; and United Nations Station for an appreciation to the historic Luneta Park and view of National Museum. It will also include discussions on the history of LRT-1 and the significance of different stations as gateways to other cities.
“We recognize that tourism is inevitably linked to transport. LRT-1 holds a special place in the daily lives of our commuters, as well as in our country’s rich history. It is uniquely positioned to highlight the viral role of public transport in encouraging more people to explore the city and discover the stories that have shaped it through the years. We are thankful for this partnership with Renacimiento Manila, and look forward to further collaboration,” says LRMC Head of Corporate Communications and Customer Relations Jacqueline S. Gorospe.
LRT-1 is Southeast Asia’s first light rail transit system, and is considered the spiritual successor of the tranvias, the electric trams of pre-war Manila.
“We are deeply honored to be in this partnership with the LRMC,” says Renacimiento Manila President Diego Gabriel B. Torres. “We are united in our advocacy of promoting Manila’s cultural heritage and historical routes through active transport like the LRT-1.”
A large portion of LRT-1 cuts through the City of Manila. One of the routes it passes through, the north-south axis of Avenida Rizal and Taft Avenue, is lined with many historical structures and heritage sites. The LRT-1 snakes through the city's key arteries, making it the ideal mode of transport to promote the rich history of Manila—from key cultural institutions and commercial establishments, to towering architectural marvels and landmarks.
The LRT-1 Heritage Transit Tour is on pilot run this year, with scheduled paid tours for the general public on the following dates: November 19 (Sunday), November 25 (Saturday), and December 10 (Saturday). The tour is available for only Php500 inclusive of beepTM card with unlimited LRT-1 rides for the day, souvenir map, and limited edition LRT-1 ikotMNL merchandise.
Interested tour participants may visit the Facebook page of Renacimiento Manila (@Renacimiento Manila) for further details and register through the link that can be found on the dedicated announcement for the said tour.
