FEBRUARY 12, 2026 — When photos of MRT-3 staff forced to hold tarpaulins like living signboards at Shaw Boulevard Station went viral, the outrage was instant. Commuters asked: Why treat workers like props when proper stands exist? Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez wasted no time — he ordered the immediate relief of the station supervisor behind the stunt, now facing investigation and sanctions.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) quickly apologized, stressing the act was “not authorized by MRT-3 management.” 

They added, “That is not part of their function, and no personnel shall be treated that way.”

This incident exposes how frontline workers are often the first to bear the brunt of poor management decisions. Some commuters even claimed the practice had been happening for days before it blew up online. 

If it weren’t for social media, do you really think the DOTr would’ve moved this fast? Let’s be honest — how many questionable practices go unnoticed until someone snaps a photo or video and posts it online? The MRT already has a reputation for broken trains, endless lines, and jam-packed rides, and now it’s catching flak for how it treats its own workers.

Commuters and staff alike deserve better. Respect shouldn’t only show up after a scandal goes viral — it should be part of everyday operations. Sure, the DOTr says corrective measures are on the way, but haven’t we heard that promise before? It’s the same old tune: “sorry today, same problem tomorrow.”

How many more viral embarrassments do we need before our public transport system finally gets its act together?

(Image: Philippine Information Agency)