President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez marked a significant milestone in the Metro Manila Subway Project with the completion of its first tunnel breakthrough on Wednesday.
The breakthrough, facilitated by a tunnel boring machine, connects the North Avenue and Quezon Avenue Stations, showcasing the project's progress.
Lopez stated that the President has instructed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to accelerate the development of essential railway systems.
A New Era for Commuters
Once operational, the subway will greatly enhance connectivity for commuters at Quezon Avenue Station, integrating with the existing Metro Railway Transit (MRT)-3.
We are here at Quezon Avenue because the tunnel boring machine has already broken through and emerged. That is why we are here—to celebrate the breakthrough of the tunnel boring machine.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
During the inspection, the President highlighted the importance of this achievement, noting the subway's potential to improve the quality of life for residents.
The DOTr chief emphasized the subway's role in alleviating traffic congestion in Metro Manila by promoting public transport usage.
- The subway is expected to reduce travel time from Valenzuela City to Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 by 41 minutes.
- The project will cater to approximately 519,000 passengers daily in its first year, with a capacity to accommodate over 1 million.
The Metro Manila Subway Project, financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), will span 33 kilometers and feature 17 stations.
The completion of this project aligns with the Philippines' efforts to enhance urban transit systems, reflecting a commitment to sustainable transport solutions.
Joining the President and Lopez were JICA Chief Representative Takashi Baba and other officials, underscoring international collaboration in this infrastructure endeavor.