The United States government, through the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), is funding technical assistance for the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) Railway, a freight project to improve Luzon port connectivity. 

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) confirmed on Friday that it signed an agreement with USTDA for the partnership, which will support project studies including transport model development, port-rail integration, and legal and institutional framework analysis.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the 250-kilometer freight railway will connect Subic and Batangas ports via Metro Manila, easing congestion at the Port of Manila and boosting capacity at other key ports.

"The Philippine government extends its gratitude to USTDA for their technical assistance in developing the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway. This railway will not only decongest the Manila Port but will also connect the seaport to Subic Bay and Batangas Port,” Dizon said.

"As a freight cargo railway, the SCMB Railway is seen to solve port traffic and congestion in Manila Port, while ensuring the timely movement of products to and from adjacent major transport hubs," he added.

USTDA Acting Director Thomas R. Hardy said the project reflects the strength of the US-Philippine alliance and its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. He added that the initiative will help build key infrastructure and enhance economic cooperation between the two countries.

The SCMB Railway is a flagship project under the Luzon Economic Corridor, which seeks to link key growth centers across Luzon.

“We are grateful for the support in advancing this crucial infrastructure project, which will drive economic growth by improving connectivity between major ports and industrial hubs along the Luzon Economic Corridor,” Secretary Frederick D. Go, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, said. 

“Once operational, the SCMB Railway will attract investments, create new opportunities for businesses, and most importantly, generate quality jobs that will benefit millions of Filipinos,” he added.