A major bottleneck in the LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension Project has been cleared after the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Villar Group to acquire key properties needed for the construction of the future Las Piñas Station.
The agreement covers seven properties that will grant the government essential site access to move forward with the transit project.
According to LRTA Administrator Hernando Cabrera, six of the seven lots covered in the agreement are being donated to the government at no cost, while the seventh property is subject to a right-of-way usage arrangement.
Cabrera confirmed that two deeds of donation have already been signed, while documentation and title processing remain underway for the remaining properties, some of which require mortgage releases. Despite the remaining paperwork, Cabrera expressed optimism that all titles and documents will be finalized within the month.
“They [Villar Group] are very confident regarding the property’s release this September,” Cabrera said.
Under the terms of the MOA, a 30-day period is set for the agreement’s conditions to take effect, after which a formal permit to enter will be granted. The LRTA expects to gain access to five of the seven properties right away, with the rest following as soon as documentation concludes.
“By October 11, we will now have the right to enter,” Cabrera added.
The deal marks a crucial step in resolving long-standing right-of-way acquisitions along the route, bringing the government closer to fulfilling its promise of connecting Metro Manila to Cavite. The LRTA previously reiterated its commitment to fully finish the LRT-1 Cavite Extension before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s term ends in 2028.
Phase 1 of the project, stretching from Baclaran Station in Pasay City to Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque City, is already operational, serving passengers across five stops: Redemptorist-Aseana, MIA Road, PITX, Ninoy Aquino Avenue, and Dr. Santos.
The remaining Phases 2 and 3 will complete the southern leg of the commuter line, adding three final stations in Las Piñas, Zapote and Niog in Bacoor, Cavite.