The management of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) said it is investigating a video showing a commuter pretending to have a leg disability to purchase a ticket more quickly.
The Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) on Monday, March 9, addressed TikTok video that showed a young man pretending to limp while buying a ticket at the LRT-1 Monumento Station.
“Tingan mo o, ang galing umarte!” an onlooker in the video said.
The clip showed the young man buying a ticket from the Priority Lane, reserved for senior citizens, pregnant women, persons with disabilities (PWD) and passengers with children, while pretending to limp.
He later commented, “Para akong ‘yung sa The Usual Suspect eh.”
The video has been removed from TikTok but remains available on Threads, where the user captioned it, “People with this ability.” It was accompanied by an exploding head emoji.
View on Threads
The incident has drawn the attention of the LRMC, which confirmed it is already investigating the case.
“The footage shows the individual misusing the priority lane at LRT-1 Monumento Station by pretending to have a mobility impairment, a move described in the video as a ‘hack’ to purchase train tickets more quickly,” the LRT-1 management said.
“LRMC is currently reviewing this case and investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. We take such matters seriously, as these actions undermine the systems put in place to ensure a seamless travel experience for those who truly need it,” it added.
“We would like to remind the general public that the priority lane is strictly and solely dedicated to senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), pregnant women, and passengers traveling with children. These lanes are not a shortcut; they are an important service for individuals who require extra assistance and consideration,” the management said.
The LRMC also reminded the public not to treat disabilities as a joke.
“Finally, we urge everyone to refrain from performing such acts for the sake of ‘content’ or personal convenience. Having a disability is not a joke, and it should never be used as a punchline or a life hack. We call on all commuters to show respect and empathy toward our priority passengers to maintain a culture of courtesy within our stations,” it said.
The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), which manages LRT-2, also condemned the stunt and urged the public to avoid actions that compromise the rights and dignity of PWDs.
“The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) reminds the public that the privileges afforded to persons with disabilities (PWDs), including the use of priority lanes and fare discounts, are intended to provide them with easier access to public transportation and opportunities that support a productive and dignified life,” it said.
“LRTA strongly condemns any misuse or abuse of PWD benefits. We urge the public to respect these privileges, which are vital for the welfare of PWDs, and to refrain from actions that compromise their rights and dignity,” the management said.
“We appeal to everyone to act responsibly and help us maintain an equitable, safe, and inclusive commuting environment for all passengers,” it added.
PWDs are entitled to fare discounts on trains, with a special beep card that gives them 50% off their rides. They also have a dedicated line at ticket booths, allowing them priority alongside seniors, pregnant women, and passengers with children.
