MRT-7, other infra projects seen to ease traffic 

San Miguel Corp. said its MRT-7 system project and other infrastructure projects will alleviate traffic and accelerate the country’s economic recovery, according to a report by Manila Standard.

SMC president and chief executive officer Ramon Ang said this is the vision behind the firm’s current and future infrastructure projects, which he said are all aimed at alleviating traffic and pollution, boosting economic activity, creating jobs and opportunities in the provinces, and improving quality of life within the metropolis.

“MRT-7 is a vital cog in our long-term goal to develop an integrated and interconnected transportation system where people from all income levels can get around and beyond the metropolis, quickly and efficiently,” said Ang.

“More than an affordable, reliable, and efficient means to move people, MRT-7 signifies a turning point, in our resolve to promote equity and inclusivity across our cities. It’s a vehicle for opportunities, equity, and better quality of life for Filipinos,” he added.

The project, a 22-km rail and road development starting in North Avenue, Quezon City and ending in the City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, is 56 percent complete, with test runs slated to begin in just a year’s time, or starting December 2022.

“Without the continued support of our partners in government and the cooperation of motorists and the public, we wouldn’t be where we are today. As with any major infrastructure project, there have been many challenges,” Ang said.

“But we are all still here, working together to deliver this project that will greatly improve the lives of Filipinos, and help usher a better future for our cities and provinces,” he added.

MRT-7, according to him, is envisioned to be part of what will be become the country’s future infrastructure network that will include interconnected railways and expressways that address social, environmental and economic issues experienced by Filipinos as a result of inadequate infrastructure and urban planning.

The MRT-7 is set to connect to LRT-1 and MRT-3, improving accessibility throughout Metro Manila and the nearby growth corridor of Bulacan.

San Miguel is also investing P740 billion to build the country’s largest, most modern international gateway in Bulacan, the New Manila International Airport, as well as a separate futuristic green city designed by leading green architect and urban planner Felino Palafox Jr. and his firm, Palafox and Associates.

The new airport and airport city will be part of the massive infrastructure network, making it easily accessible from Metro Manila via rail and expressway, Ang said.

San Miguel in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is also undertaking a P1-billion clean-up of the 27-kilometer Tullahan-Tinajeros River system and the Pasig River costing P2 billion.