Construction of package 2 of the North-South commuter railways starts

A Madrid-based multinational corporation focused on infrastructure and renewable energy has begun its construction for Contract Package 2 of the South Commuter Railways Project (SCRP) last week.

Acciona, the multinational company has partnered with DM Consunji Inc for the said project. 

Acciona, which has a strong track record in railway projects, including the 160-kilometer Madrid–Seville High-Speed Rail Line, is bringing its expertise to the SCRP.

The SCRP is part of the larger North-South Commuter Railway system, designed to connect Clark in Pampanga to Calamba in Laguna, reducing travel time between the two cities by 50%.

The project aims to enhance Metro Manila’s public transport network by integrating existing LRT and MRT lines while modernizing the country’s aging railway infrastructure.

Ruben Camba, Acciona Southeast Asia Managing Editor, said “We are proud to mark the beginning of SCRP Package 2, a transformative development that will improve the lives of millions of Filipinos by providing faster, safer,  and more accessible transportation”.

“This project is more than just building a railway — it’s about connecting communities, generating jobs, and supporting inclusive growth across Luzon,” Camba explained.

The first bored piles to support the 7.9-kilometer elevated viaduct have been installed, following necessary geotechnical investigations. Further ground tests will be conducted along the stretch from Blumentritt to Sta. Ana in Manila. The section will feature three elevated stations: España, Santa Mesa, and Paco.

Construction is being carried out in close coordination with local government units and stakeholders due to the urban location of the project.

Measures have been taken to minimize disruption, including careful selection of bored pile testing sites and sequencing construction to reduce noise and vibrations.

The total cost of the North-South Commuter Railway is estimated at P171.78 billion, though no specific cost breakdown for the SCRP has been released.