Subway project faces delays on ROW issues

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is fast-tracking completion of the P488.5-billion Metro Manila Subway Project, with delays attributed to contentious right-of-way issues with affected property owners.

Transport Secretary Vince Dizon said, “No, we’re not on track. The subway is very delayed.”

Dizon said the full completion of the Metro Manila Subway Project is now projected for 2032, a delay from the initial 2028 target.

“But we will push for 2028. We will push for two, three stations. From Valenzuela, Quirino, and hopefully also North Avenue,” he said.

Dizon collaborated with Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto to address right-of-way problems concerning the subway’s Ortigas Station. Dizon revealed that Ortigas is the last station with right-of-way issue.

“Today we came together here to find a solution. Hopefully, after a few weeks, we will finally start construction,” Dizon said.

Sotto thanked the DOTr and affirmed the local government’s readiness to assist in expediting the project.

“We are also looking forward to the subway, so we will also do our best to help. We see that everything is already operational, and the remaining problems are being fixed,” said Sotto.

Dubbed as the Philippines’ “Crown Jewel” of mass transporation, the 33-kilometer, 17-station Metro Manila Subway will cut across eight cities, stretching from Valenzuela City to FTI-Bicutan in Parañaque City, with a spur line to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City.

Once operational, the underground railway system aims to cut travel time between Quezon City and NAIA in Pasay City from the current one hour and 10 minutes to just 35 minutes and can service up to 370,000 passengers daily.