Dizon: Early launch eyed for key Metro Manila subway stops

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is aiming to open at least three stations of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ends his term in 2028, as part of efforts to accelerate the rollout of key infrastructure projects.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the agency is pushing for the early completion of the East Valenzuela, Quirino Highway, and North Avenue stations, which could support partial operations of the country’s first underground rail system by 2028.

“We want to do partial [operations], but we have to discuss it with the Japanese,” Dizon said, referring to the Japanese consortium involved in building the line.

The MMSP has faced years of delays, largely due to right-of-way (ROW) acquisition issues. Originally slated for partial operations in 2022, the project has been repeatedly pushed back. Dizon, who took office in February, acknowledged the delay but noted that progress has been made in addressing outstanding obstacles.

“No, we're not on track. The subway is really delayed,” he said. However, he expressed optimism that momentum is returning, particularly after efforts to resolve the final major ROW issue at the Ortigas station site.

On Wednesday, Dizon visited the Pasig site with Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto to work on a solution, saying he hopes construction at the Ortigas station can begin in the coming weeks.

The subway project spans 33 kilometers from Valenzuela to Parañaque, with a spur line extending to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay. It will feature 17 stations and is designed to significantly reduce travel time between Valenzuela and the airport—from 90 minutes to just 35.

Passenger capacity estimates range from 300,000 to over 500,000 per day, depending on final operating conditions and ridership growth.

President Marcos has directed the DOTr to fast-track major transport infrastructure projects like the MMSP to help improve mobility and reduce congestion in Metro Manila.