MANILA – The Metro Manila Subway Project Phase 1 (MMSP 1) is moving according to plan, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced Friday.
DOTr Undersecretary Timothy John Batan stated that a demonstration run is planned for the first quarter of 2028, while full passenger services are expected to begin in 2031.
“The subway project is divided into five tranches of Japanese loans. Based on our latest schedule, we are on track,” Batan said during an interview following the signing of the fourth tranche of the Japanese loan for MMSP 1 at the Department of Foreign Affairs.
He added, “Currently, 10 tunnel boring machines are operational daily. Nearly all contracts have been awarded, and construction activities across all sites are in full swing. We are now just awaiting the fifth tranche.”
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya formalized the fourth loan tranche, totaling 220 billion yen (around PHP84.81 billion).
MMSP 1 includes integration with the North-South Commuter Railway (NCSR) from FTI to Bicutan, the construction of a depot and 17 stations, and the acquisition of 30 train sets.
Upon completion, the subway will span 27.5 kilometers, connecting Valenzuela to Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.
