Back in 2018, the Philippines signed a loan agreement from Japan International Cooperation Agency covering 104.53 billion yen or 51 billion pesos to jumpstart the Metro Manila Subway Project. It was such an ambitious project that the DOTr named it its “Project of the Century.”
Secretary Arthur Tugade has recently announced that the agency has finally managed to complete the shipment and transportation of the two (2) Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) needed for the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP).
https://www.facebook.com/DOTrPH/videos/174822681176328
The main parts of the 2 TBMs, aptly named “Kaunlaran” and “Perlas ng Silangan,” are now at the MMSP Stockyard located in Tandang Sora, Quezon City. Meanwhile, the minor parts and some accessories of the said TBMs are safely placed in a warehouse in Valenzuela City.
Now that the crucial equipment is here, construction for the said project can now begin anytime. “Bago matapos ang taon, inaasahang magsisimula na ang aktwal na paghuhukay para sa Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP), na tinaguriang Project of the Century,” DOTR Secretary Arthur Tugade said.
Once done, it will run from Valenzuela City to Bicutan, Parañaque, and NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay.
The Metro Manila Subway Project is set to become the first underground railway system in the country. The project costs an astounding 800 billion yen or Php 393 billion.
Seeing the tunnel boring machines arrive in the country brings us closer to the dream–our very own modern subway system just like that of many developed countries. We just can’t wait for this inexpensive, convenient, safe, and environmentally friendly way of transportation soon. This ambitious project will definitely help transform the lives of Filipino commuters as well as the status of the Metro Manila commuting scene. Exciting times ahead, indeed.
