DoTr chief wants NSCR’s 2028 run

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said efforts to accelerate the construction of the Malolos-to-Clark segment of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) had been intensified to meet the 2028 operational target despite ongoing delays.

Dizon has ordered the submission of a comprehensive catch-up plan to address setbacks and ensure the project stays on track.

The 53-kilometer railway segment, a critical component of the NSCR, promises to cut travel time between Malolos, Bulacan and Clark, Pampanga, from the current one hour to just 30 minutes.

Road congestions seen to ease

Once operational, the line is expected to serve thousands of commuters daily, easing congestion and boosting economic activity in Central Luzon.

Dizon emphasized the urgency of overcoming delays caused by logistical challenges and unforeseen site conditions. “We are fully committed to delivering this project on time,” he said during a recent site inspection. “The catch-up plan will streamline operations and ensure we meet our deadlines.”

The Malolos-to-Clark segment includes modern electric trains and elevated tracks designed to enhance safety and efficiency. It forms part of the broader 147-kilometer NSCR, connecting Metro Manila to key provinces in the north.

Local communities have expressed high expectations for the railway. “This will change how we live and work,” said Aling Rosa, a vendor from Malolos. “Faster travel means more opportunities for us.”

Construction teams are now working extended shifts, with additional resources deployed to critical areas. The Department of Transportation (DoTr) has also engaged with stakeholders to resolve permitting issues and ensure smooth progress.

When completed, the railway is expected to accommodate up to 300,000 passengers daily, offering a reliable alternative to road travel. The project is funded through a combination of government allocations and loans from international partners, including Japan.

Dizon remains optimistic about meeting the 2028 deadline. “This railway is more than infrastructure — it’s a lifeline for commuters and a catalyst for growth,” he said.

The DoTr is set to release updates on the catch-up plan’s implementation in the coming weeks as construction ramps up.