Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange Finally Opens Today

After much waiting and delays, the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), the first intermodal terminal in the country, is finally set to open to commuters, just in time for the beginning of the holiday season. The terminal overtakes the re-opening of the Valenzuela Gateway Center (VGC) integrated terminal, which was suspended after incomplete structures hampered its operations.

President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to attend the opening ceremonies of the massive transport hub later today, which will cater to all provincial public utility buses, UV Express service, and public utility jeepneys originating from provinces southwest of Metro Manila entering via Coastal Road and Manila Cavite Expressway.

As the country’s first 'landport,' PITX boasts multiple routes and transport options, as well as world-class facilities that rival those of an airport such as specific arrival and departure areas, automated ticketing, bus monitoring, advanced public address (PA) systems, baggage handling, spacious holding areas, and modern bathrooms.

PITX will also connect to the future LRT Line 1 South Extension, which ends at Barangay Niog, Bacoor. The LRT extension line is expected to operate by 2021.

Mark de Leon, OIC-undersecretary for road transport and infrastructure of the DOTr, professes that the PITX will provide commuters with an improved travelling experience.

"Some commuters dati, sa Baclaran nakatayo, sa gitna ng Baclaran naghihintay ng ride going home to Cavite," de Leon explained. "But now, punta lang sila rito sa PITX, they can be assured of a ride home."

PITX officials also assured the public that colorum vehicles are restricted from entering the terminal.

"Based on the concession agreement, they have to be screened by the LTFRB," Mariano Antonio Arroyo, PITX general manager, said. "So you're guaranteed here that these operators have passed the stringiest standards of government."

Once in full capacity, PITX is projected to accommodate up to 200,000 passengers per day.

With the terminal’s opening, government and terminal officials plan to conduct a dry run to ensure its readiness for the holiday season.