MRT-3 takes down ‘unnecessary’ signage at Shaw Boulevard station

This, it noted, does not reflect the official position of the agency.

In a statement issued on Monday, February 9, the management of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) addressed the photo that circulated on social media over the weekend.

The said image, which was taken by a certain Jane Guanzon at the Shaw Boulevard station, featuring a signage that read: “Each step you climb is a gift to your heart, lungs, and muscles.”

That immediately caused a stir online, with many people calling it out as an action “gaslighting” commuters for using the escalator.

Some also called it as ableist and unsympathetic to exhausted workers, elderly passengers, and those with mobility problems.

In response, the agency said, “DOTr MRT-3 was made aware of the social media post that circulated regarding a signage displayed at Shaw Boulevard Station few days ago. Upon learning about this, we immediately took it down as it does not reflect the official position of the transport agency.“

MRT-3 also emphasized that it is moving on the contrary, as the convenience of the commuters is always their “paramount concern and priority.”

“In the first place, there is no need for such signage since all escalators are operational. It only caused unnecessary confusion,” the management added.

They also explained that the signage was the initiative of one of the station supervisors, and was not sanctioned by the MRT-3 management and was poorly communicated, which it said led to a misunderstanding. “Again, such signage was unnecessary.“

“We sincerely apologize for this. There was never any intention to invalidate or diminish the commuters’ experiences or concerns. We recognize the importance of listening, especially when issues about accessibility, comfort, and safety of the commuters are raised,” added MRT-3.

DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez and MRT-3 General Manager Michael Capati have also given instruction that any reported malfunction of escalators must be addressed immediately, with repairs being prioritized to ensure minimal disruption.

“The comfort, safety, and trust of the riding public remain our foremost priorities. We remain committed to maintaining our facilities and improving the commuting experience of everyone,” the statement ended.

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