LRT Line 1 Cavite extension project finish by 2015 – Aquino

MANILA -- President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday brought good news to the people of Cavite as he announced that the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 Cavite Extension will be operational in 2015.

In his speech during the launch of the program "Alay sa Mamamayan" held in Imus City, Cavite, he said the train line will benefit about 250,000 commuters daily.

The LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension Project aims to provide convenience for people living in Cavite and other nearby areas.

Aquino, likewise, assured that the government will continue to implement major infrastructure and various projects to advance the development of Cavite, which he described as one of "the fastest growing provinces" in the country.

He said among the major projects the government has undertaken in the province are the Bangkal-GMA Bridge in Dasmariñas, widening of Governor's Drive in Trece Martires, and Daang Hari–SLEX Link Road, which connects Bacoor and the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX).

Aquino launched the "Alay sa Mamamayan" program for the people of Cavite to address pressing issues, such as, poverty, food security, education, health, livelihood and other basic concerns of the people in the province.

Aquino, who heads the ruling Liberal Party, meanwhile took a pot shot at rival candidates as he called on Caviteños to be discerning in choosing the new set of people who will serve in government.

"Huwag po tayong umasa sa tsamba, o sa agimat o anting-anting (Don't rely on chances or charm or amulets)," Aquino said, subtly hitting Senator Bong Revilla Jr., the chairman of the Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats, who is popular in movies as "Agimat."

Revilla is being groomed by the Lakas-CMD as it standard bearer for the 2016 presidential race.

Some members of the Revilla clan are also running in various positions in Cavite, including the senator's son, Jolo, who is running for vice governor against the son of Senator Panfilo Lacson, Jay.

Thursday's event was graced by several local government officials in Cavite, mostly allies of the administration.

Two senatorial candidates of the LP, Benigno "Bam" Aquino IV and Risa Hontiveros, were also present in the event.

Also present were Senator Panfilo Lacson, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas. (Jill Beltran/Sunnex)