The Philippines and Japan signed and exchanged notes for the PHP8.175 billion second supplemental loan worth for the rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya signed and exchanged notes for the supplemental loan on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez during the signing stressed that the MRT-3 rehabilitation will be a huge boost to its steadily increasing ridership, reflecting growing public trust in its reliability.
“Our goal is to provide a better commuting experience that respects the time and safety of every passenger, especially senior citizens and persons with disabilities. When commuting becomes faster and safer, commuters gain back precious hours that can be well spent with their families and loved ones,” Secretary Lopez said.
The transport chief likewise expressed his gratitude to the Government of Japan for its continued support to the Philippines, saying the agreement “reflects the strong and reliable partnership between the two countries.”
Apart from DFA, Secretary Lopez also thanked the Department of Finance, Economy and Development Council (ED Council), Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev), and other partner agencies for approving and facilitating the MRT-3 rehab project, aimed at improving the rail line’s efficiency and safety.
President Marcos has ordered the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to ensure the MRT-3’s efficient operations and ease the daily commuting experience of the rail line’s passengers.
The MRT-3 rehabilitation project is a component of the President’s Build, Better More (BBM) Infrastructure Development initiative, which aims to restore the rail line’s designed condition to ease the commuting experience in the National Capital Region.
Secretary Lazaro, on the other hand, noted that the MRT-3 line plays a crucial role in the daily lives of commuters.
“The continued rehabilitation of this vital transport system is therefore not merely an infrastructure project, but a direct investment in the productivity, safety and quality of life of our people,” foreign affairs chief said.
For his part, Ambassador Kazuya vowed that the Government of Japan will continue to support the advancement of the Philippines’ railway system, which will improve the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
“Japan remains firmly committed to standing alongside the Philippines as a trusted partner in the development and security. I sincerely hope that through our joint efforts, MRT-3 will continue to provide safer, more reliable and more convenient service for commuters,” Ambassador Kazuya said.
