Major rail projects on track, 2027 milestones set

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon on Monday reported continued progress on several major railway projects, including the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), saying many are on track for key milestones by 2027.

In a radio interview, Dizon said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the Department of Transportation to focus on resolving long-standing issues that have delayed infrastructure efforts.

“When we assumed office in early March, President Marcos immediately directed us to address the remaining problems in our major projects. A lot of these issues involve right-of-way,” Dizon said in Filipino.

On the Metro Manila Subway project, Dizon acknowledged delays but noted significant progress in resolving land acquisition issues.

“There were five right-of-way problems with the subway, which slowed down progress. We’ve resolved four out of the five. What remains is the Metrowalk property in Ortigas. That’s a tough one. There’s an ongoing court case involving ownership, and the government is part of that issue,” he explained.

Dizon said he and Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto are scheduled to visit the proposed Ortigas station site on Tuesday.

Meanehile, Dizon revealed he is set to meet Mayor Nancy Binay regarding the Makati Subway project.

He noted that the project, originally developed as a public-private partnership (PPP), had limited national government involvement and did not undergo the usual Department of Transportation review process.

As for the NSCR, Dizon reported strong progress in acquiring right-of-way, particularly in the northern segment where informal settlers previously occupied unused rail lines.

“Our right-of-way acquisition is moving well, especially in the north. That’s what we’re really trying to accelerate. We’re confident that at least from Valenzuela to Clark, we can complete it by 2028—before President Marcos steps down,” he said.

He added that partial operations of the NSCR are expected to begin earlier.

“By 2027, our fellow citizens will already be able to ride from Valenzuela to Malolos, Bulacan,” he said.

Dizon also said the government is targeting the simultaneous opening of the common station with MRT-7 by 2027.

“We’re expecting a lot to happen in 2027. That year is a significant milestone for the administration of President Marcos,” he added.