An Analysis of Metro Manila MRT-3 Passengers' Perceptions of Their Commuting Experience and its Effects Using Structural Equation Modeling

Abstract

This research focuses on the deteriorating level of service on the Metro Manila MRT-3, and the perceptions of regular morning peak period passengers of their commuting experience and its effects on them. Using structural equation modeling, the authors develop a measurement model consisting of nine latent factors related to their commute − exogenous factors (commuting experience): perceived crowding, predictability, perceived air quality and perceived benefits; and endogenous factors (mediators and outcomes): perceived risk, perceived service quality, awareness during the commute, mental adaptation and commuting stress. The authors validate a structural model that describes the mechanism of how commuting experience affects commuting stress through some mediating factors. They find that total waiting time contributes significantly to commuting stress, while mental adaptation reduces it. Multi-group moderation is also shown to occur in relation to gender, age, income level, experience and flextime policy. These findings provide good insight for designing appropriate policies for MRT-3.