The local government of Manila has given its full support to the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project, with Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso approving the plans and vowing to expedite construction.

Domagoso’s approval, which came just 24 hours after he received the plans, was announced Tuesday during a joint press conference and clearing operation on Old Antipolo Road with Department of Transportation (DoTr) Secretary Vince Dizon.

“On behalf of the people of Manila, we are grateful to the President that the project will be implemented, and we are happy that we have a new DoTr Secretary who moves fast,” Domagoso said, adding that the city government will support projects that benefit commuters.

The 147-kilometer railway project, which will connect Central Luzon, Metro Manila and the Calabarzon region, had been delayed for two years due to right-of-way issues.

The Manila portion of the project, a 1.1-kilometer stretch from Solis Street to Blumentritt, has been given the green light.

Meantime, Dizon praised Domagoso’s swift response, noting that the project’s design was revised to spare heritage properties and avoid demolishing houses in the area. The plan also includes improvements to old creeks and canals to help mitigate flooding.

“This team cooperation between local government and national government proves that big projects will go unhampered and yield success,” Dizon said.