Housing facility fast-tracked for NSCR displaced families

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is fast-tracking construction of relocation sites for families affected by the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) system in Bulacan and Pampanga.

DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed all partner agencies, including local government units, to prioritize improved housing and recreational facilities for displaced households.

The relocation project, named “El Nuevo De Municipio de Calumpit,” will provide liveable spaces for those residing along the NSCR’s path.

“The priority of the President and the DOTr is clear: our fellow citizens affected by transportation projects must have a proper place to relocate. We will ensure that no affected family is left behind,” said Lopez.

DOTr partnered with the Calumpit local government to develop the site, which can accommodate 637 families from the municipalities of Calumpit and Malolos in Bulacan along with Apalit and Minalin in Pampanga. While the road embankment is finished, construction is scheduled to begin in April 2026 and reach completion by 2027.

The development consists of six four-story buildings with community areas such as a basketball court, parks and playgrounds. The Calumpit local government will manage the social preparations for the incoming residents.

Three relocation sites are under development for the northern segment of the NSCR, with two in San Fernando, Pampanga and one in Cutud, Angeles City. Data show that 4,515 informal settler families will move to northern sites, while 12,210 families will be relocated in the south.

DOTr assistant secretary for right of way and site acquisition IC Calaguas said the office is resolving land issues to keep the NSCR project on schedule.

“The support from our President and Secretary Lopez for our projects is immense. Because of this, we are confident that we can resolve all right-of-way issues and provide proper relocation for the affected residents,” said Calaguas.