TOKYO, October 2025 — In response to the escalating urban congestion and environmental pressures in the Manila metropolitan area, a new technical-cooperation initiative has been launched to enhance the energy-efficiency of LRT Line 1 in the Philippines. The project involves Mitsubishi Electric Corporation collaborating with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Hankyu Corporation to support the operator, Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC).

Mitsubishi Electric will deploy its Serendie™ digital platform to analyse the current power consumption of LRT Line 1, modelling energy-flows including regenerative braking energy and proposing solutions to reuse surplus energy, such as auxiliary power supply to station buildings or energy-storage equipment.

The broader goal is to reduce the reliance on automobiles in Metro Manila, thereby alleviating chronic traffic congestion, improving air quality, and cutting CO₂ emissions by strengthening the role of LRT Line 1 as an energy-efficient public transit backbone. JICA’s involvement comes through a technical assistance programme that supports LRMC’s efforts to improve operational efficiency and lower greenhouse-gas emissions.

The contract period for Mitsubishi Electric’s role runs from June 2025 to May 2026. This initiative underscores the growing importance of sustainable urban mobility and smart infrastructure in rapidly developing Asian cities. By combining data-driven energy-management tools with rail-transit operations, the project aims to serve as a model for similar sustainability efforts across the region.

Source: Business Wire