Here are 9 things that you should know about the Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) system at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. It is also called the “UP Diliman monorail.”

Do not forget to read: “On board the first Filipino-made train“

1. The first Filipino-developed train

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC), spearheaded the design and development of the AGT as an alternative elevated transport system to address the worsening vehicular traffic congestion in Metro Manila. (Photo by MIRDC-DOST)

2. The second prototype

Two coaches run along the 465 meter-long test track built inside the UP Diliman. The track is elevated at 20 ft. The first test track, which is 150 meter-long, is found in the DOST compound in Bicutan, Taguig. (Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)

3. 60 Passengers

The test track at UP Diliman has two air-conditioned coaches that are capable of carrying 60 passengers per trip.

4. Not a monorail

Designers of the AGT clarified that the train system is not a monorail. The AGT runs on two parallel bars that form a track. (Photo by MIRDC-DOST)

5. The new “IKOT”

If the test runs yield favorable results, the test track in UP Diliman would be extend to form a full intra-campus loop. But DOST says that it is not projected to replace the jeepneys the ply within the campus. The planned train stops aren’t serviced by jeepneys at the moment. (Photo by Exec8 / Wikimedia)

6. Runs on electricity

The DOST considers the AGT as a green transportation solution that produces zero greenhouse gas emissions.

7. Rubber tires

Because it runs on rubber tires, the AGT produces less noise. (Photo by Philippinerailways / Wikimedia)

8. Driverless

The train system is fully automated.

9. Cost-effective

According to the DOST, developing the train locally costs just about one fifth of the cost of acquiring a similar foreign train. (Photo by UP Diliman)