The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), in collaboration with the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) plans to put up a research and training laboratory that aims to keep abreast with the advancement in the railway industry.

With their vision to introduce modern technology in the railway industry, the joint research teams outlined their scheme for further study to translate research results into innovation.

According to Atty. Rafael S. Rodriguez, LRTA Administrator, the creation of the research lab will provide technical expertise and assistance in the conduct of research activities associated with railway system.

The research laboratory will focus on the localization of spare parts for trains, railway tracks and maintenance of rolling stocks.

Moreover, a container van equipped with modern equipment and facilities has also been planned to be set up at LRTA Line 1 Depot in Pasay City. It will be manned by LRTA engineers, TUP professors and railway engineering students.

The LRTA has also supported the proposal on the utilization of solar power system in stations to minimize power consumption.  "As we bring innovation in our railway system, the solar-powered stations will significantly contribute to the global preservation of our environment. This is an effort also to promote energy conservation",  Rodriguez stressed.

Besides physical advancements, the joint research team shall likewise be working on a study proposal that would give birth to a warning system for alerting train overloads. These sensors detect passenger volume and provide a warning alert for riders who want to board the train despite congestion.

"Train overload has been a common problem of every Filipino commuter.  With the introduction of this gadget, we'll prevent untoward incidents such as door-pinning, pushing and abrupt breaking. At the end of the day, the safety of the passengers is our precedence", said Rodriguez.

LRTA Administrator Rafael S. Rodriguez, Ms. Eleanore T. Domingo, Manager of the Planning Department along with TUP Professor Enrico R. Hilario, Dean of the College of Industrial Technology, Prof. Ian De los Trinos and some professors from the University gathered in a collaborative meeting last week at the LRTA office in Pasay City to address the needs of and benefits for both institutions.

This was discussed in connection with the Memorandum of Agreement, inked by former LRTA Administrator Melquiades A. Robles and TUP President Godofredo E. Gallega, Ph.D.  on January 25, 2008, to further strengthen their existing agreement and mutual partnership.

Under the Agreement, the LRTA and TUP shall provide education and training for students who are interested to pursue a course in Railway Engineering Technology while jointly assist each party in the upgrade of faculty and facilities for the improvement of railway operation.

The LRTA, likewise shall provide equipment in railways technology for TUP students during workshops and on-the-job training, with the tasks to share experts, engineers and technical persons in its employ in the transfer of learning and assist the University in providing employment opportunities to TUP graduates.