President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed all government agencies involved to ensure the timely completion of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP), the nation’s inaugural underground railway system. This directive underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to significantly improve public transportation in the Philippines.
Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, in a briefing today, emphasized the urgency of the project following the President’s recent inspection of the MMSP construction site at the Camp Aguinaldo Station.
“The administration recognizes the urgent need for a more effective and reliable mass public transit system in the country,” Castro stated. “That’s why the President, along with the Department of Transportation, inspected the construction site to ascertain the project’s status and ensure its progress.”
President Marcos Jr. specifically instructed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to maintain orderly construction sites to minimize inconvenience for the public. Concurrently, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has been tasked with ensuring the timely release of necessary funds to meet the project’s demanding timeline.
“President Marcos Jr. gave directives to both the DOTr and DBM: ensure the project is completed according to the target date, ensure construction sites are orderly so as not to add to commuters’ inconvenience, and ensure the proper release of funds for on-time project completion,” Castro elaborated.
The 33-kilometer Metro Manila Subway Project is poised to revolutionize travel in the capital. It is expected to reduce travel time from Valenzuela to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City from the current 2 hours and 30 minutes down to a mere 41 minutes.
Furthermore, the MMSP will be interconnected with MRT 3, MRT 7, and the North-South Commuter Railway, providing a seamless and integrated commuting experience for passengers traveling to and from various destinations. This integration is anticipated to significantly benefit students and employees across Metro Manila.
“The subway project aims to make commuting faster and more convenient for all, whether students or employees. There will be no need to wake up excessively early just to avoid traffic,” Castro concluded, highlighting the transformative impact the subway will have on daily life in the metropolis.
