President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo led the groundbreaking ceremony for a critical segment of the Metro Manila Subway Project, marking a significant milestone in the development of the nation’s first underground railway system.

The ceremony for Contract Package 105, known as CP105, officially commenced the construction of approximately 1.3 kilometers of tunnels and two underground stations.

This specific section extends from Kalayaan Avenue Station to the edge of the Bonifacio Global City station, linking one of the capital’s premier business districts to the broader transit network.

Department of Transportation (DoTr) Acting Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez joined the leaders at the site, where Endo stressed the project’s role in addressing the persistent challenges of traffic congestion and air pollution.

The ambassador cited that the subway will serve as the backbone of a more efficient public transportation system, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and livable urban environment for the millions who reside in the metropolis.

The CP105 section is considered a cornerstone of the entire subway line due to its proximity to Bonifacio Global City.

As a major economic hub, the integration of a subway station is expected to significantly boost commercial activity and drive sustained growth in the local economy by providing a reliable, high-capacity alternative to road-based travel.

This latest development comes as the Philippines and Japan celebrate the 70th anniversary of the normalization of their diplomatic relations.

Japan has long supported the Philippine railway sector through Official Development Assistance, and Endo described the subway project as a testament to the deep trust and strong partnership between the two nations.

Construction for this package will be handled by Nishimatsu Construction, which is also currently working on the CP102 section of the subway.

Japanese officials expressed confidence that the firm’s extensive expertise will ensure the successful delivery of the infrastructure, which aims to modernize the country’s logistics and significantly improve the daily quality of life for Filipino commuters.