MRT coaches due in first quarter of 2016

Senators Grace Poe and Nancy Binay set aside politics on Tuesday to inspect the prototype of the MRT coaches that will be delivered in the first quarter of 2016 if tests prove satisfactory, GMA News 24 Oras has reported.

Poe found the coaches up to standard while Binay found the doors too narrow.

MRT general manager Roman Buenafe said the prototype will be tested in the next three months.

If it proves to be satisfactory, the rest of the 47 coaches will be shipped from China.

The first coach will be used by the first quarter of 2016.

Poe is the chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Services while Binay was the author of a resolution seeking an inquiry into the reliability of the MRT's service.

Poe and Binay's father Vice President Jejomar Binay have over the past months exchanged criticisms through the media.

Poe called on the Vice President to face the allegations against him in the Senate while the elder Binay has insinuated that those seeking the presidency should have adequate experience.

The Binay camp has also brought to fore questions on Poe's citizenship and qualification to run for higher office. -Rie Takumi/NB, GMA News