The Economy and Development (ED) Council, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., has approved refinements to the ongoing implementation of the Metro Rail Transit 7 (MRT7) as well as some adjustments to the Fast Patrol Crafts project, according to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev).
During its 9th meeting on Tuesday (May 5), the Council approved the technical aspects of the project variation for the MRT7 project, as part of the government’s efforts to address implementation challenges and facilitate its completion to make it usable for public commuters soonest possible.
The MRT7 project remains a key infrastructure investment expected to transform mobility across Metro Manila and nearby provinces. It is projected to cut travel time between Quezon City and Bulacan from about three hours to about 35 minutes, serving up to 850,000 passengers daily and supporting regional economic integration. As of early 2026, the project is more than 85 percent complete and will begin operations by 2027.
“The approval of the refinements for MRT-7 implementation marks a critical step forward in finally delivering this long-overdue project. By addressing its current challenges, we are now in a stronger position to push toward its completion. More importantly, this move reflects our commitment to the riding public: easing congestion, improving mobility across Metro Manila, and strengthening economic integration in the region. This is not just about finishing a project; it is about delivering tangible benefits that commuters have long been waiting for,” said DEPDev Secretary and ED Council Vice Chairperson Arsenio M. Balisacan.
The Council also approved adjustments to the Department of Transportation-Philippine Coast Guard’s proposed acquisition of 40 units of fast patrol crafts (FPCs). To be funded through an official development assistance (ODA) loan from the Government of French Republic, the Council approved the change in project cost and adjustment of the implementation period to consider foreign exchange movements and timelines for the finalization of financing arrangements.
Costing PHP31.8 billion, the FPCs are expected to enhance the country’s capability to strengthen maritime law enforcement against marine crimes such as smuggling and other illegal activities and improve disaster response and search-and-rescue operations.
“As we continuously face global uncertainties that persistently challenge our economy, we consider this a crucial project in strengthening the country’s maritime security, disaster response, and law enforcement capabilities,” Balisacan said.
The country’s chief economist added that the approvals at today’s ED Council meeting underscore the government’s resolve to ensure that major infrastructure projects are implemented efficiently and transparently, delivering the highest economic and social returns for the Filipino people.
