The MRT 3, also known as the Metro Rail Transit Line 3, holds a significant place in the daily commutes of millions of Filipinos. Recognizing the importance of this transportation system, Capstone-Intel Corporation conducted a study to gauge public sentiment towards the MRT.
Capstone-Intel is a high-impact research company that uses innovative research technologies, tools, and methods to convert data and information into breakthrough insights and actionable intelligence outputs. It is committed to helping its clients solve problems, find solutions, grow markets and constituencies, build reputations, navigate risks, manage crises, and be the country’s leading private research and intelligence agency.
Background
Metro Rail Transit Line 3, commonly known as MRT Line 3, is a rapid transit system in Metro Manila, Philippines. It is one of the three railway lines under the country’s Integrated Rail Transit System, along with the Light Rail Transit Line 1 and Line 2. The MRT Line 3 stretches approximately 16.9 kilometers, connecting the northernmost part of Quezon City to the southern city of Pasay. It plays a crucial role in the transportation network of Metro Manila, serving as a vital link for commuters traveling between the north and south districts.
The MRT Line 3 features a total of 13 stations, providing convenient access to major commercial, residential, and government areas. Some notable stations along the line include North Avenue, Ayala Avenue, and Taft Avenue. With its modern trains and efficient operations, the MRT Line 3 is capable of accommodating a large number of passengers daily, significantly reducing traffic congestion and travel time in the metro. Its strategic location and extensive coverage make it an essential mode of transportation for both residents and visitors in Metro Manila, contributing to the overall development and growth of the region’s economy. However, it is unfortunate that occasional technical issues have prompted some riders to express their dissatisfaction.
The MRT receives various public complaints, with the most frequent ones involving defective elevators/escalators and long queues of passengers. In March, there was a notable incident at one of the MRT stations where a passenger’s laptop was damaged while waiting in line at the x-ray scanner. This issue gained traction and became a trending topic.
Methodology
The research was conducted between November 28, 2022 and November 28, 2023. Capstone-Intel used its social listening tools to analyze publicly accessible Facebook pages using the keyword “MRT.” There’s no specific demographic or personal information gathered or monitored during this study.
Reaction distribution
On Facebook, the keyword “MRT” has received a total of 1,851,777 reactions. These reactions consist of 734,411 (39.70%) Likes, 627,614 (33.90%) Haha, 328,667 (17.70%) Love, 118,922 (6.40%) Sad, 23,877 (1.30%) Wow, and 18,384 (1.00%) Angry.
Top posts
The post with the highest engagement, shared by Donnalyn, received a total of 161,122 reactions. To provide a breakdown, 73,604 (45.70%) of these reaction were categorized as Love, 52,358 (32.50%) Haha reactions, 34,653 (21.50%) Like, 222 (0.10%) Wow, 152 (0.10%) Angry, and 133 (0.10%) Sad reactions.
The second post, shared by Stupid (which is currently inaccessible), generated significant interest as well with a total of 282,324 reactions. This post received 278,826 (98.90%) Haha, 2,401 (0.90%) Like, 947 (0.00%) Love, 113 (0.00%) Wow, 28 (0.00%) Sad, and 9 (0.00%) Angry reactions.
The third post, shared by GMA Public Affairs, also received a total of 232,476 reactions. It accumulated 129,374 (55.65%) Likes, 71,149 (30.61%) Love, 30,015 (12.91%) Haha, 1,845 (0.79%) Wow, 56 (0.02%) Sad reactions, and 37 (0.01%) Angry reactions.
In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become an integral part of our daily lives. Facebook, being one of the most popular platforms, allows users to express their reactions to posts through a range of emojis, including the “haha” reaction. While the “haha” reaction is widely used to indicate amusement or laughter, it is important to note that its interpretation may not always be positive. In the context of the discussion on MRT, it is evident from the Reaction Distribution and Top Post analysis that while there is a considerable presence of “haha” reactions, the majority of online users have responded positively.