DOTr, DepEd, UK ink deal for transit-oriented 'Education City' in Metro Manila

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Education (DepEd), and the United Kingdom government have partnered to build a transit-oriented development project in Taguig City, envisioned to become the Philippines' first 'Education City'.

The initiative, dubbed the Senate-DepEd Transit-Oriented Development (SEED TOD), was formalized through a tripartite agreement signed on July 16. It will transform the 13-hectare DepEd Complex into a mixed-use hub connected to the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR).

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the Education City would serve as a model for future infrastructure projects that combine transport access with social services.

“This project will pave the way for better developments in the future—not only in transport, but also in education,” Dizon said during the signing ceremony with Education Secretary Sonny Angara and British Ambassador Laure Beaufils.

Inspired by London’s Elizabeth Line, the project is backed by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) under its Green Cities and Infrastructure program. British firm Crossrail International and other UK-based consultants will provide technical and design support.

Education Secretary Angara noted that the integrated development will not only ease student travel but also enhance DepEd’s ability to support infrastructure goals through revenue generation from the site.

“This will have a catalytic effect—not only in Taguig but in Philippine transportation overall,” Angara said, stressing that proceeds from the project can help DepEd build more classrooms and expand digital initiatives.

Planned features include green open spaces, teacher accommodations, training facilities, and eco-friendly commercial and residential buildings. The transit station will serve as a major connection point for students and workers in the area.

Officials hope the Taguig model will inspire future developments that place education and sustainability at the core of infrastructure planning.