President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to accelerate the implementation of priority infrastructure projects, aiming to establish a lasting legacy before his term ends in 2028, newly appointed Transportation Secretary Vivencio Dizon announced on Friday.
“We had an extensive discussion about this, and the President is determined to ease the daily struggles of our people—not just in transportation, but also in healthcare, education, and agriculture,” Dizon said during a press briefing at Malacañang.
“But transportation is an everyday crisis—like a nightmare that commuters are forced to relive daily. The President truly understands the hardship of the Filipino people, and that’s why he immediately said, ‘All these projects must be fast-tracked.’”
Among the key projects prioritized by the administration are the Metro Manila Subway, the North-South Commuter Railway, and improvements to regional airports and seaports.
According to Dizon, the President is particularly keen on the swift completion of the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway, which are expected to alleviate traffic congestion and improve the daily commute for millions of Filipinos.
Dizon emphasized that Filipinos deserve a world-class subway system similar to those in Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Beyond rail projects, the administration is also prioritizing the modernization of regional airports and seaports, recognizing their critical role in tourism, business, and agriculture.
“Our airports, especially those in Palawan, are crucial. The most efficient way forward is privatization, as it ensures faster development,” Dizon said.
He also highlighted the need to expand the country’s port system, particularly agricultural ports, to address high food prices.
“The President is pushing for port expansion, especially for agricultural goods. One major reason food prices remain high is poor connectivity and high transport costs,” Dizon added.
With these ambitious infrastructure projects, the Marcos administration aims to transform the country’s transport landscape, enhancing mobility and economic growth for all Filipinos.
