The Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) has contracted the services of private company Commsec, Inc. for the PHP100-million upgrade of the closed-circuit television (CCTV) system of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1).
“With the upgrade, which is estimated to take two years to complete, crowd monitoring will be more effective. This will also later on feed into an automated system that will inform passengers which stations are heavy, moderate or light, thus helping them plan their trips better,” LRMC president and chief executive officer Juan Alfonso said in a statement Thursday.
He said the firm will install about 500 high-resolution surveillance cameras with increased storage capacity to ensure the safety and security of passengers at LRT-1 stations, depot and other facilities.
The CCTV system features an enhanced software that could count the number of passengers waiting for a train, check the entry of trespassers into unauthorized areas of the system, and help alert LRMC on suspicious objects lying unattended in a station.
It will also enable train drivers to ensure that doors safely close before the train leaves a station through a monitor plugged into multiple cameras pointed at each train door.
Earlier this month, the LRMC signed a PHP650-million deal with First Balfour, Inc. and MRail, Inc. for the rehabilitation of 11 substations of LRT-1.
The rehabilitation would replace substation equipment, such as critical switch gears, rectifiers, transformers, and cables for a period of two years.
Since taking over the LRT in 2015, the LRMC has implemented measures, which resulted in the improvement of its operations, and ensured the orderliness and cleanliness of all its trains and stations, which currently serve an average of 500,000 passengers daily.
The LRMC managed to increase the number of operating trains from 77 to 112, increase the number of daily trips from 505 to 554 and extended the operating hours to serve more passengers and reduce queuing time in stations and trains.
The LRMC is a consortium put up by Metro Pacific Investments Corp., Ayala Corp., and Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings and took over the operations and management of LRT-1 on September 12, 2015.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1055346
Thursday, November 29, 2018
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
JV Ejercito assures relocation in railway rehab
LUCENA CITY — Residents living along railroad tracks in the country will be given new homes in relocation sites once the government starts rehabilitating and modernizing the local railway system, Sen. JV Ejercito said.
“There will be no demolition without relocation. It’s in the law,” Sen. JV Ejercito, chair of the Senate committee on urban planning, housing and resettlement, told reporters here on Monday.
Ejercito appealed to residents along the tracks to cooperate with government agencies once they were asked to leave their homes.
Greater good
“Everybody should now think of the greater good for the progress and advancement of the country. We have to make some sacrifices,” he said.
The Philippine National Railways’ modernization consists of two phases: north south commuter rail from Tutuban (Manila) to City of Malolos in Bulacan province, and North 2 from Malolos to Clark Freeport in Pampanga province. The PNR south route consists of its commuter line from Manila to Los Baños town in Laguna province, and on to Matnog town in Sorsogon province. —Delfin T. Mallary Jr.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1057769/jv-ejercito-assures-relocation-in-railway-rehab
“There will be no demolition without relocation. It’s in the law,” Sen. JV Ejercito, chair of the Senate committee on urban planning, housing and resettlement, told reporters here on Monday.
Ejercito appealed to residents along the tracks to cooperate with government agencies once they were asked to leave their homes.
Greater good
“Everybody should now think of the greater good for the progress and advancement of the country. We have to make some sacrifices,” he said.
The Philippine National Railways’ modernization consists of two phases: north south commuter rail from Tutuban (Manila) to City of Malolos in Bulacan province, and North 2 from Malolos to Clark Freeport in Pampanga province. The PNR south route consists of its commuter line from Manila to Los Baños town in Laguna province, and on to Matnog town in Sorsogon province. —Delfin T. Mallary Jr.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1057769/jv-ejercito-assures-relocation-in-railway-rehab
Friday, November 23, 2018
Amid hype on Xi visit, PH, Japan execs sign railway deals, grant
Amid ceremonies marking Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Manila, the Philippine and Japanese governments quietly finalized details for another train line—the 109-kilometer North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Extension project.
On Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda signed an exchange of notes for a P77.4-billion grant to start construction of one of the flagship projects under President Duterte’s “Build Build Build” program.
The loan represented the first tranche of official development assistance (ODA) for the entire P777-billion NSCR system.
It was to be jointly funded by Japan International Cooperation Agency and Asian Development Bank.
Improved transport
The two-part extension (Clark and Los Banos) will extend NSCR Phase 1 (Tutuban to Malolos) by 53 km north and 56 km south.
It was approved by the National Economic and Development Authority on Nov. 15 and was expected to improve mass transport in Metro Manila.
Once completed, the NSCR project will have 36 stations, 58 eight-car trains and a double-track fully elevated railway system that will connect Central Luzon, Metro Manila and Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon).
It’s also expected to have seamless transfers to existing railways in Metro Manila—Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines 1 and 2, the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 3 and the upcoming Metro Manila subway.
The system was expected to serve 340,000 passengers a day once portions of it start operating in 2022. It’s expected to be fully operational by 2023.
MRT 3 rehab
The signing of the exchange of notes on the railway project also came two weeks after both countries inked an P18-billion loan agreement for the 43-month rehabilitation of the MRT 3.
Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said the Philippines was “satisfied” with the pace of negotiations for financing from Japan and China for “big ticket projects.”
Dominguez said ODA assistance from Japan and China were “both very relevant and progressing on both sides quite well.”
The finance chief made the statement after meeting with a Japanese delegation led by Hiroto Izumi, special adviser to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Last Tuesday, the Philippine and Chinese governments also signed a number of agreements covering economic cooperation as well as infrastructure development.
Competing
Asked if Japan and China were competing to finance projects here, Dominguez replied: “I don’t know if they are competing, but I think that many countries around the world are paying attention to the Philippines primarily because President Duterte has refocused our entire foreign policy.”
“He has focused on our neighbors,” Dominguez said.
“Please don’t forget that aside from China and Japan, South Korea is providing a significant amount of assistance to us,” he said. “In fact, the commitment is about $1 billion,” Dominguez added.
Japan and China had earlier committed $9 billion in assistance to the Philippines, including loans and grants for the Build, Build, Build program.
Through Build, Build, Build the government planned to roll out 75 “game-changing” projects, with about half to be finished within Mr. Duterte’s term.
The government planned to spend more than P8 trillion for the projects until 2022 to usher in a “golden age of infrastructure.”
https://globalnation.inquirer.net/171595/amid-hype-on-xi-visit-ph-japan-execs-sign-railway-deals-grant
On Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda signed an exchange of notes for a P77.4-billion grant to start construction of one of the flagship projects under President Duterte’s “Build Build Build” program.
The loan represented the first tranche of official development assistance (ODA) for the entire P777-billion NSCR system.
It was to be jointly funded by Japan International Cooperation Agency and Asian Development Bank.
Improved transport
The two-part extension (Clark and Los Banos) will extend NSCR Phase 1 (Tutuban to Malolos) by 53 km north and 56 km south.
It was approved by the National Economic and Development Authority on Nov. 15 and was expected to improve mass transport in Metro Manila.
Once completed, the NSCR project will have 36 stations, 58 eight-car trains and a double-track fully elevated railway system that will connect Central Luzon, Metro Manila and Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon).
It’s also expected to have seamless transfers to existing railways in Metro Manila—Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines 1 and 2, the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 3 and the upcoming Metro Manila subway.
The system was expected to serve 340,000 passengers a day once portions of it start operating in 2022. It’s expected to be fully operational by 2023.
MRT 3 rehab
The signing of the exchange of notes on the railway project also came two weeks after both countries inked an P18-billion loan agreement for the 43-month rehabilitation of the MRT 3.
Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said the Philippines was “satisfied” with the pace of negotiations for financing from Japan and China for “big ticket projects.”
Dominguez said ODA assistance from Japan and China were “both very relevant and progressing on both sides quite well.”
The finance chief made the statement after meeting with a Japanese delegation led by Hiroto Izumi, special adviser to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Last Tuesday, the Philippine and Chinese governments also signed a number of agreements covering economic cooperation as well as infrastructure development.
Competing
Asked if Japan and China were competing to finance projects here, Dominguez replied: “I don’t know if they are competing, but I think that many countries around the world are paying attention to the Philippines primarily because President Duterte has refocused our entire foreign policy.”
“He has focused on our neighbors,” Dominguez said.
“Please don’t forget that aside from China and Japan, South Korea is providing a significant amount of assistance to us,” he said. “In fact, the commitment is about $1 billion,” Dominguez added.
Japan and China had earlier committed $9 billion in assistance to the Philippines, including loans and grants for the Build, Build, Build program.
Through Build, Build, Build the government planned to roll out 75 “game-changing” projects, with about half to be finished within Mr. Duterte’s term.
The government planned to spend more than P8 trillion for the projects until 2022 to usher in a “golden age of infrastructure.”
https://globalnation.inquirer.net/171595/amid-hype-on-xi-visit-ph-japan-execs-sign-railway-deals-grant
Philippines, Japan line up more projects for funding
MORE INFRASTRUCTURE projects funded by Japan advanced further in the pipeline after top economic officials from the Philippines and Japan exchanged notes during their meeting late Wednesday, while also identifying new prospects.
Philippine and Japanese officials held the 6th meeting of the Philippines-Japan High-Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation in Manila on Wednesday evening where both sides signed and exchanged notes for a ¥37.905-billion, or $336.24 million, loan for the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Phase IV and another ¥167.199 billion, or $1.413 billion, for the first tranche of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Extension Project.
The Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project involves upgrading works along the stretch of the Upper Marikina River — from downstream of the Manggahan Floodway to the Marikina Bridge — as well as construction of the Marikina Control Gate Structure.
The 109-kilometer NSCR Extension Project, meanwhile, will extend the Malolos, Bulacan-Tutuban, Manila railway to Clark International Airport in the north and to Los Banos, Laguna in the south. The system will have 58 eight-car trains, seven of which will be airport express trains, and a double-tracked elevated railway that will connect with other lines in Metro Manila.
The exchange of notes is done before the signing of loan agreements.
Manila and Tokyo also signed and exchanged bilateral documents for a Contract of General Consulting Service for the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase I between the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and a consortium of six Japanese firms and OC Global; and the joint venture agreement among the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN), and Surbana Jurong for the New Clark City.
Both sides committed to open the first three stations of the Metro Manila Subway by May 2022, inclusion of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport line extension in the detailed engineering design of the project and establishment of the Philippine Railway Institute by 2021.
Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said in a briefing after the meeting that technical working groups will meet regularly to “address challenges for the railway projects.”
“The Japanese side requested the Philippine government to expedite measures such as land acquisition and relocation of utilities.”
Both sides also discussed the possibility of more Japanese ODA financing for “road construction and expansion projects in northern Luzon and Metro Manila, flood management and drainage improvements, and various components of the New Clark City project.”
Loan agreements signed by Japan and the Philippines since the committee met in March last year include: P11 billion for the Mega Manila Subway; P18.76 billion for the Metro Rail Transit-Line 3 (MRT-3) Rehabilitation program, P2.10 billion for the New Bohol Airport Construction and Sustainable Environmental Protection Project Phase 2, and the P4 billion for the Arterial Road Bypass Phase 3 project.
“The Philippines is already at the verge of graduating to the level where we will not qualify anymore for ODA for some countries. Our income per capita is rising, so while we are still here, I think it is best for us to take advantage of the long tenors and the relatively low interest rates because after a few years we will no longer be qualified for that. We will be considered a middle-income country, therefore, we will have to pay higher interest rates. So it makes sense for as to have these projects funded now rather than later,” Mr. Dominguez said.
Aside from Japan, the Philippines has attracted financing support from China, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, the United States, the European Union and Canada. — Elijah Joseph C. Tubayan
https://www.bworldonline.com/philippines-japan-line-up-more-projects-for-funding/
Philippine and Japanese officials held the 6th meeting of the Philippines-Japan High-Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation in Manila on Wednesday evening where both sides signed and exchanged notes for a ¥37.905-billion, or $336.24 million, loan for the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Phase IV and another ¥167.199 billion, or $1.413 billion, for the first tranche of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Extension Project.
The Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project involves upgrading works along the stretch of the Upper Marikina River — from downstream of the Manggahan Floodway to the Marikina Bridge — as well as construction of the Marikina Control Gate Structure.
The 109-kilometer NSCR Extension Project, meanwhile, will extend the Malolos, Bulacan-Tutuban, Manila railway to Clark International Airport in the north and to Los Banos, Laguna in the south. The system will have 58 eight-car trains, seven of which will be airport express trains, and a double-tracked elevated railway that will connect with other lines in Metro Manila.
The exchange of notes is done before the signing of loan agreements.
Manila and Tokyo also signed and exchanged bilateral documents for a Contract of General Consulting Service for the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase I between the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and a consortium of six Japanese firms and OC Global; and the joint venture agreement among the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN), and Surbana Jurong for the New Clark City.
Both sides committed to open the first three stations of the Metro Manila Subway by May 2022, inclusion of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport line extension in the detailed engineering design of the project and establishment of the Philippine Railway Institute by 2021.
Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said in a briefing after the meeting that technical working groups will meet regularly to “address challenges for the railway projects.”
“The Japanese side requested the Philippine government to expedite measures such as land acquisition and relocation of utilities.”
Both sides also discussed the possibility of more Japanese ODA financing for “road construction and expansion projects in northern Luzon and Metro Manila, flood management and drainage improvements, and various components of the New Clark City project.”
Loan agreements signed by Japan and the Philippines since the committee met in March last year include: P11 billion for the Mega Manila Subway; P18.76 billion for the Metro Rail Transit-Line 3 (MRT-3) Rehabilitation program, P2.10 billion for the New Bohol Airport Construction and Sustainable Environmental Protection Project Phase 2, and the P4 billion for the Arterial Road Bypass Phase 3 project.
“The Philippines is already at the verge of graduating to the level where we will not qualify anymore for ODA for some countries. Our income per capita is rising, so while we are still here, I think it is best for us to take advantage of the long tenors and the relatively low interest rates because after a few years we will no longer be qualified for that. We will be considered a middle-income country, therefore, we will have to pay higher interest rates. So it makes sense for as to have these projects funded now rather than later,” Mr. Dominguez said.
Aside from Japan, the Philippines has attracted financing support from China, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, the United States, the European Union and Canada. — Elijah Joseph C. Tubayan
https://www.bworldonline.com/philippines-japan-line-up-more-projects-for-funding/
PH, Japan sign P95-B loan on railways, river projects
The Philippines and Japan have signed a 205 billion yen (approximately P95 billion) loan involving railways and river projects aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth, overcoming vulnerability to various risks, as well as stabilizing and fortifying bases for human life and production in the country.
Following the Sixth Meeting of the Philippines-Japan Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation in Manila the other day, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. and Japanese Ambassador Koji Haneda signed and exchanged notes on the latest multi-billion yen loan projects.
Dr. Hiroto Izumi, Special Advisor to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and Philippine economic managers witnessed the signing of the agreement.
The first project involves the North-South Commuter Railway Extension Project (I) that will run along the length of the railway from Tutuban to Calamba in Laguna (South Section), and from Malolos to Clark International Airport in Pampanga. This consists of a total extension of 109 kilometers.
The extension is expected to improve the connectivity between Manila and the surrounding areas, ease the heavy traffic congestion, and promote the convenience of the general public through fast, safe, and comfortable public transportation system.
Japan, together with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), will extend financing assistance and utilize Japan’s extensive railway knowledge, experience, and technology. The loan for this project will provide up to 167 billion yen (approx. P78 billion).
On the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project (Phase IV), the project will utilize Japan’s disaster prevention technology and will include major works such as dredging and construction of dikes, control gate structure, and revetment along the Pasig-Marikina river walls.
This specific project aims to mitigate flood damage in lowland areas of Metro Manila, combined with its Phase I (development of detailed design), and Phases II and III, which implemented river improvement works,
Total loan provision for the river improvement project will reach up to 38 billion yen (P18 billion pesos).
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/11/22/ph-japan-sign-p95-b-loan-on-railways-river-projects/
Following the Sixth Meeting of the Philippines-Japan Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation in Manila the other day, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. and Japanese Ambassador Koji Haneda signed and exchanged notes on the latest multi-billion yen loan projects.
Dr. Hiroto Izumi, Special Advisor to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and Philippine economic managers witnessed the signing of the agreement.
The first project involves the North-South Commuter Railway Extension Project (I) that will run along the length of the railway from Tutuban to Calamba in Laguna (South Section), and from Malolos to Clark International Airport in Pampanga. This consists of a total extension of 109 kilometers.
The extension is expected to improve the connectivity between Manila and the surrounding areas, ease the heavy traffic congestion, and promote the convenience of the general public through fast, safe, and comfortable public transportation system.
Japan, together with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), will extend financing assistance and utilize Japan’s extensive railway knowledge, experience, and technology. The loan for this project will provide up to 167 billion yen (approx. P78 billion).
On the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project (Phase IV), the project will utilize Japan’s disaster prevention technology and will include major works such as dredging and construction of dikes, control gate structure, and revetment along the Pasig-Marikina river walls.
This specific project aims to mitigate flood damage in lowland areas of Metro Manila, combined with its Phase I (development of detailed design), and Phases II and III, which implemented river improvement works,
Total loan provision for the river improvement project will reach up to 38 billion yen (P18 billion pesos).
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/11/22/ph-japan-sign-p95-b-loan-on-railways-river-projects/
PH, Japan sign Exchange of Notes for North-South Commuter Railway
The Philippines and Japan the other day (November 21, 2018) signed the Exchange of Notes for the 109-kilometer, North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Extension, which is part of the P777.55- billion, 147-km. NSCR System Project.
Earlier this month, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) board approved the NSCR Extension.
Previously divided into three different projects, the NSCR System will seamlessly integrate the 38-km. PNR Clark 1 from Tutuban to Malolos, the 53-km. PNR Clark 2 from Malolos to Clark International Airport, and the 56-km. PNR Calamba from Solis to Calamba.
The NSCR System consists of 36 stations, 58 8-car trains – inclusive of 7 Airport Express trains, and a double-track fully elevated railway system that will connect Region III (Central Luzon), the National Capital Region (NCR), and Region IV-A (CALABARZON).
It will have seamless transfer stations with LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3, as well as with the upcoming Metro Manila Subway.
When the system partially opens in 2022, it is expected to have a ridership of 340,000 passengers per day, increasing to 550,000 passengers per day when it becomes fully operational in 2023.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are co-financing the NSCR Extension Project.
It will be ADB’s its largest loan to a single project, almost double its current largest project loan.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and H.E. Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Koji Haneda signed the Exchange of Notes for the extension project during the 6th Meeting of the Philippines-Japan High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation.
The signing was witnessed by several Cabinet Secretaries for the Philippines side, and by Dr. Hiroto Izumi, Special Adviser to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and Mr. Shigeru Kiyama, Special Adviser to the Cabinet of Japan, for the Japan side.
https://business.mb.com.ph/2018/11/22/ph-japan-sign-exchange-of-notes-for-north-south-commuter-railway/
Earlier this month, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) board approved the NSCR Extension.
Previously divided into three different projects, the NSCR System will seamlessly integrate the 38-km. PNR Clark 1 from Tutuban to Malolos, the 53-km. PNR Clark 2 from Malolos to Clark International Airport, and the 56-km. PNR Calamba from Solis to Calamba.
The NSCR System consists of 36 stations, 58 8-car trains – inclusive of 7 Airport Express trains, and a double-track fully elevated railway system that will connect Region III (Central Luzon), the National Capital Region (NCR), and Region IV-A (CALABARZON).
It will have seamless transfer stations with LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3, as well as with the upcoming Metro Manila Subway.
When the system partially opens in 2022, it is expected to have a ridership of 340,000 passengers per day, increasing to 550,000 passengers per day when it becomes fully operational in 2023.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are co-financing the NSCR Extension Project.
It will be ADB’s its largest loan to a single project, almost double its current largest project loan.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and H.E. Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Koji Haneda signed the Exchange of Notes for the extension project during the 6th Meeting of the Philippines-Japan High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation.
The signing was witnessed by several Cabinet Secretaries for the Philippines side, and by Dr. Hiroto Izumi, Special Adviser to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and Mr. Shigeru Kiyama, Special Adviser to the Cabinet of Japan, for the Japan side.
https://business.mb.com.ph/2018/11/22/ph-japan-sign-exchange-of-notes-for-north-south-commuter-railway/
Japan pledges funding for PH projects
Japan has committed to fund two infrastructure projects in Manila costing 205 billion yen following a high-level meeting on Wednesday.
The pledge was expressed through an exchange of notes between the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Japan after the Philippines-Japan Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation meeting.
One of the documents covers a 37.905-billion yen (about $336.24 million) loan for the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Phase IV to mitigate frequent massive flooding.
Another exchange of notes is for a 167.199-billion (about $1.413 billion) loan for the first tranche for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Extension Project that involves extending the railway from Malolos in Bulacan to Clark International Airport in Pampanga and from Solis in Manila to Calamba in Laguna.
Other documents signed after the meeting were the Contract of General Consulting Service for the Metro Manila Subway Project (Phase I) between the Transportation department and Japanese consulting firms and the Joint Venture Agreement between the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development, and Surbana Jurong for the New Clark City project.
“In this latest meeting, both sides confirmed the updated candidate list of projects for consideration and action. This list includes new projects proposed for Japanese loan and grant financing,” Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd said in a press conference after the signing.
Dominguez also reported that road construction and expansion projects in northern Luzon and Metro Manila, flood management and drainage improvements, and various components for the development of New Clark City were among the projects discussed for possible financing.
Both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to ensure the start of partial operations of the first phase of the Metro Manila Subway Project by May 2022, he added.
A consortium of Japanese firms has bagged an P11-billion contract to build the subway, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno earlier said on Wednesday.
https://www.manilatimes.net/japan-pledges-funding-for-ph-projects/472007/
The pledge was expressed through an exchange of notes between the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Japan after the Philippines-Japan Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation meeting.
One of the documents covers a 37.905-billion yen (about $336.24 million) loan for the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Phase IV to mitigate frequent massive flooding.
Another exchange of notes is for a 167.199-billion (about $1.413 billion) loan for the first tranche for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Extension Project that involves extending the railway from Malolos in Bulacan to Clark International Airport in Pampanga and from Solis in Manila to Calamba in Laguna.
Other documents signed after the meeting were the Contract of General Consulting Service for the Metro Manila Subway Project (Phase I) between the Transportation department and Japanese consulting firms and the Joint Venture Agreement between the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development, and Surbana Jurong for the New Clark City project.
“In this latest meeting, both sides confirmed the updated candidate list of projects for consideration and action. This list includes new projects proposed for Japanese loan and grant financing,” Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd said in a press conference after the signing.
Dominguez also reported that road construction and expansion projects in northern Luzon and Metro Manila, flood management and drainage improvements, and various components for the development of New Clark City were among the projects discussed for possible financing.
Both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to ensure the start of partial operations of the first phase of the Metro Manila Subway Project by May 2022, he added.
A consortium of Japanese firms has bagged an P11-billion contract to build the subway, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno earlier said on Wednesday.
https://www.manilatimes.net/japan-pledges-funding-for-ph-projects/472007/
Japan gives P95-billion loan for flood control, rail
THE Philippines and Japan have signed an exchange of notes for two documents in line with Japan’s commitment to provide around ¥205 billion (about P95 billion) in concessional loans for projects under the Duterte administration’s “Build, Build, Build” (BBB) infrastructure program, the Department of Finance (DOF) has reported.
The exchange of notes signed on Wednesday cover the ¥37.905-billion loan (or approximately $336.24 million) for the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Phase IV; and the ¥167.199 -billion loan (about $1.413 billion) for the first tranche of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Extension Project.
The signing was done by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Embassy of Japan after the sixth Philippines-Japan Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation meeting at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
Following the sixth meeting, Japanese Ambassador Koji Haneda and Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. signed and exchanged notes concerning the two yen loanprojects, amounting to a total ¥205 billion (approximately P95 billion), in the presence of Dr. Hiroto Izumi, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister, and Philippine Economic Managers.
“This is our sixth meeting since March 2017. Our regular meetings continue to visibly deliver positive impact on our key infrastructure projects and sectoral cooperation. I am glad to see this Joint Committee has covered and addressed many issues in such a short period of time,” Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said.
During the meeting, the finance chief chaired the Philippines’s side, while the Japanese delegation was led by Izumi.
The loan for the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Phase IV covers the final phase of the project to mitigate the frequent massive flooding caused by the overflow of the Pasig-Marikina River.
For the NSCR Extension Project, Japan has committed to grant the loan in tranches. The project involves extending the NSCR railway from Malolos in Bulacan to Clark International Airport in Pampanga and from Solis in Manila to Los Banos, Laguna.
Dominguez said the two sides will continue to discuss Philippine flagship infrastructure projects included in the pipeline for Japanese financing “to address outstanding issues on project preparation and implementation.”
Faster processing
As a result of the regular dialogues between the Philippines and Japan, two loan agreements were signed in a short span of time since the fifth meeting of the two countries in Tokyo in June for official development assistance (ODA).
These cover the supplemental loan of ¥4.376 billion for the second phase of the New Bohol Airport Construction and Sustainable Environmental Protection Project and the ¥38.1-billion loan for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT 3) Rehabilitation Project.
Joining Dominguez and Locsin at the meeting were Secretaries Ernesto M. Pernia of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda), Benjamin E. Diokno of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Arthur P. Tugade of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Mark A. Villar of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Alfonso G. Cusi of the Department of Energy (DOE); as well as Vivencio B. Dizon, President-CEO of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA); among others.
Dizon explained that key projects under the government’s BBB program, as well as projects funded with Japanese ODA, are well on track in terms of implementation.
“I think in terms of the key projects that have already been launched both in Metro Manila, Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, I think things are on track. As for the ODA projects with Japan, everything I think, is on track,” Dizon said.
Asked on when the loan signing agreement for the two projects would take place, Dominguez said, “I’m not sure if there’s a specific date already set, but we will be working on it together with the Japanese Embassy here, as well as our Japanese counterparts.”
He said the speed in which the loan agreements signed with China as well as Japan for infrastructure projects to be implemented in the country are “progressing quite well.”
“It’s not a horse race. Basically, we are satisfied with the pace that we are achieving for both big projects; we are receiving ODA assistance from China and Japan, they are both very relevant and the projects on both sides are progressing quite well,” he added.
Best time
Now is the best time, he said, to have the Philippines’s infrastructure projects funded by ODA, wherein rates are low and the tenors for the agreements are long, since the country will become a middle income soon resulting to higher interest rates.
Meanwhile, Villar said the Bangsamoro Road Network Development Project is being eyed for implementation within the year.
“We have already completed the master plan for the Marawi road network, which is one of the projects of Jica [Japan International Cooperation Agency]. So we are targeting to start implementation this year. We will implement this program that was generously given to us by Jica in the amount of P950 million,” Villar said.
During the meeting, a joint venture agreement was signed for the New Clark City among the BCDA, Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Cooperation for Transport and Urban Development and Surban Jurong.
The contract for general consulting service for the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase I between the DOTr and Japanese consulting firms was also signed.
https://businessmirror.com.ph/japan-gives-%E2%82%A795-b-loan-for-flood-control-rail/
The exchange of notes signed on Wednesday cover the ¥37.905-billion loan (or approximately $336.24 million) for the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Phase IV; and the ¥167.199 -billion loan (about $1.413 billion) for the first tranche of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Extension Project.
The signing was done by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Embassy of Japan after the sixth Philippines-Japan Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation meeting at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
Following the sixth meeting, Japanese Ambassador Koji Haneda and Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. signed and exchanged notes concerning the two yen loanprojects, amounting to a total ¥205 billion (approximately P95 billion), in the presence of Dr. Hiroto Izumi, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister, and Philippine Economic Managers.
“This is our sixth meeting since March 2017. Our regular meetings continue to visibly deliver positive impact on our key infrastructure projects and sectoral cooperation. I am glad to see this Joint Committee has covered and addressed many issues in such a short period of time,” Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said.
During the meeting, the finance chief chaired the Philippines’s side, while the Japanese delegation was led by Izumi.
The loan for the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Phase IV covers the final phase of the project to mitigate the frequent massive flooding caused by the overflow of the Pasig-Marikina River.
For the NSCR Extension Project, Japan has committed to grant the loan in tranches. The project involves extending the NSCR railway from Malolos in Bulacan to Clark International Airport in Pampanga and from Solis in Manila to Los Banos, Laguna.
Dominguez said the two sides will continue to discuss Philippine flagship infrastructure projects included in the pipeline for Japanese financing “to address outstanding issues on project preparation and implementation.”
Faster processing
As a result of the regular dialogues between the Philippines and Japan, two loan agreements were signed in a short span of time since the fifth meeting of the two countries in Tokyo in June for official development assistance (ODA).
These cover the supplemental loan of ¥4.376 billion for the second phase of the New Bohol Airport Construction and Sustainable Environmental Protection Project and the ¥38.1-billion loan for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT 3) Rehabilitation Project.
Joining Dominguez and Locsin at the meeting were Secretaries Ernesto M. Pernia of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda), Benjamin E. Diokno of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Arthur P. Tugade of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Mark A. Villar of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Alfonso G. Cusi of the Department of Energy (DOE); as well as Vivencio B. Dizon, President-CEO of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA); among others.
Dizon explained that key projects under the government’s BBB program, as well as projects funded with Japanese ODA, are well on track in terms of implementation.
“I think in terms of the key projects that have already been launched both in Metro Manila, Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, I think things are on track. As for the ODA projects with Japan, everything I think, is on track,” Dizon said.
Asked on when the loan signing agreement for the two projects would take place, Dominguez said, “I’m not sure if there’s a specific date already set, but we will be working on it together with the Japanese Embassy here, as well as our Japanese counterparts.”
He said the speed in which the loan agreements signed with China as well as Japan for infrastructure projects to be implemented in the country are “progressing quite well.”
“It’s not a horse race. Basically, we are satisfied with the pace that we are achieving for both big projects; we are receiving ODA assistance from China and Japan, they are both very relevant and the projects on both sides are progressing quite well,” he added.
Best time
Now is the best time, he said, to have the Philippines’s infrastructure projects funded by ODA, wherein rates are low and the tenors for the agreements are long, since the country will become a middle income soon resulting to higher interest rates.
Meanwhile, Villar said the Bangsamoro Road Network Development Project is being eyed for implementation within the year.
“We have already completed the master plan for the Marawi road network, which is one of the projects of Jica [Japan International Cooperation Agency]. So we are targeting to start implementation this year. We will implement this program that was generously given to us by Jica in the amount of P950 million,” Villar said.
During the meeting, a joint venture agreement was signed for the New Clark City among the BCDA, Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Cooperation for Transport and Urban Development and Surban Jurong.
The contract for general consulting service for the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase I between the DOTr and Japanese consulting firms was also signed.
https://businessmirror.com.ph/japan-gives-%E2%82%A795-b-loan-for-flood-control-rail/
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Japanese consortium bags P11-B contract to build Metro Manila Subway
A consortium of Japanese companies bagged the contract to build has been awarded Metro Manila Subway for P11 billion contract, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said Wednesday.
“For the subway, the consortium has been awarded ... The winning bidder is OCGlobal, consisting of six Japanese firms,” Diokno told reporters during a breakfast forum in Manila.
The Japanese consortium consists of the following companies Oriental Consultants Global Co. Ltd., Tokyo Metro Co. Ltd., Katahira & Engineers International, Pacific Consultants Co. Ltd., Tonichi Engineering Consultants Inc. and Metro Development Co. Ltd.
“The amount involved is P11 billion. This is for general contracting for the subway,” Diokno said.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade earlier said the government was targeting to break ground for the Metro Manila Subway project in mid-December 2018.
The initial phase of the project covers the first three stations with which the Metro Manila Subway can start operating.
The Mindanao Avenue-Quirino Highway, Tandang Sora, and North Avenue stations are scheduled to start operating in May 2022.
The loan agreement for the project, amounting to ¥104.530 billion or around P51 billion, was signed between the Philippine government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) last March.
The country’s first subway rail system stretches 30 kilometers, with a total of 14 stations from Mindanao Ave. in Quezon City to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Parañaque City.
It has a provision for a 5-km extension and two additional stations to connect with the Light Rail Transit Line 1.
The subway train is expected to reduce commuting time from Quezon City to the airport to under 40 minutes.
The entire railway system is targeted to be completed in 2025.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/675537/japanese-consortium-bags-p11-b-contract-to-build-metro-manila-subway/story/
“For the subway, the consortium has been awarded ... The winning bidder is OCGlobal, consisting of six Japanese firms,” Diokno told reporters during a breakfast forum in Manila.
The Japanese consortium consists of the following companies Oriental Consultants Global Co. Ltd., Tokyo Metro Co. Ltd., Katahira & Engineers International, Pacific Consultants Co. Ltd., Tonichi Engineering Consultants Inc. and Metro Development Co. Ltd.
“The amount involved is P11 billion. This is for general contracting for the subway,” Diokno said.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade earlier said the government was targeting to break ground for the Metro Manila Subway project in mid-December 2018.
The initial phase of the project covers the first three stations with which the Metro Manila Subway can start operating.
The Mindanao Avenue-Quirino Highway, Tandang Sora, and North Avenue stations are scheduled to start operating in May 2022.
The loan agreement for the project, amounting to ¥104.530 billion or around P51 billion, was signed between the Philippine government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) last March.
The country’s first subway rail system stretches 30 kilometers, with a total of 14 stations from Mindanao Ave. in Quezon City to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Parañaque City.
It has a provision for a 5-km extension and two additional stations to connect with the Light Rail Transit Line 1.
The subway train is expected to reduce commuting time from Quezon City to the airport to under 40 minutes.
The entire railway system is targeted to be completed in 2025.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/675537/japanese-consortium-bags-p11-b-contract-to-build-metro-manila-subway/story/
Friday, November 16, 2018
Balfour, MRail to rehabilitate LRT power substations
LIGHT Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) on Thursday said it inked a P650-million deal with First Balfour, Inc. and MRail, Inc. for the rehabilitation of the power substations of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1).
First Balfour and MRail have committed to complete the rehabilitation of the substations, some of which are 30 years old, within two years. It will involve the replacement of major substation equipment such as the critical switchgears, rectifiers, transformer, cables, and upgrade of the supervisory control and data acquisition system.
“As they power our trains, the substations are absolutely critical to providing reliable electricity supply and efficient operations of trains,” LRMC President and CEO Juan F. Alfonso was quoted as saying in a statement.
LRMC, the consortium of Ayala Corp., Metro Pacific Light Rail Corp., and Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) Pte. Ltd., bagged the public-private partnership (PPP) project for the Cavite extension in September 2015.
https://www.bworldonline.com/balfour-mrail-to-rehabilitate-lrt-power-substations/
First Balfour and MRail have committed to complete the rehabilitation of the substations, some of which are 30 years old, within two years. It will involve the replacement of major substation equipment such as the critical switchgears, rectifiers, transformer, cables, and upgrade of the supervisory control and data acquisition system.
“As they power our trains, the substations are absolutely critical to providing reliable electricity supply and efficient operations of trains,” LRMC President and CEO Juan F. Alfonso was quoted as saying in a statement.
LRMC, the consortium of Ayala Corp., Metro Pacific Light Rail Corp., and Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) Pte. Ltd., bagged the public-private partnership (PPP) project for the Cavite extension in September 2015.
https://www.bworldonline.com/balfour-mrail-to-rehabilitate-lrt-power-substations/
DOTr official denies MRT rehab overpriced
An official of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) denied on Thursday allegations that the rehabilitation of the MRT-3 is overpriced.
DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan denied the allegations by Philippine Star columnist Jarius Bondoc that the cost for the rehabilitation of the railway has more than doubled from P7.5 billion to nearly P18 billion.
Bondoc wrote in his Nov. 14 column that the owner of the MRT-3, Metro Rail Transit Corp (MRTC), had proposed to do the same rehab for only P7.5 billion in 2016.
The price, Bondoc claimed, was quoted by Sumitomo Corp, which is the same company the DOTr has contracted to rehabilitate and maintain the MRT-3.
But Batan said Sumitomo made no such offer to MRTC.
"Sumitomo has not, formally or even informally, given a price quote to MRTC for the rehabilitation and for maintenance of the MRT-3 anytime in the last 5 years. And our proposal will be based on a very recent system audit on the current MRT 3 system," Batan said, quoting a statement that he said was from Sumitomo itself.
He also said the MRTC itself had no capability to rehabilitate Metro Manila's main railway.
"Nangongolekta lang yan ng renta mula sa DOTr at hindi naman talaga sya railway operator o railway developer," Batan said.
(MRTC just collects rent from the DOTr and is not really a railway operator or railway developer.)
The Japan International Cooperation Agency has committed to finance the rehab of the MRT-3.
The DOTr expects train service to improve by the third quarter of 2019.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/business/11/15/18/dotr-official-denies-mrt-rehab-overpriced
DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan denied the allegations by Philippine Star columnist Jarius Bondoc that the cost for the rehabilitation of the railway has more than doubled from P7.5 billion to nearly P18 billion.
Bondoc wrote in his Nov. 14 column that the owner of the MRT-3, Metro Rail Transit Corp (MRTC), had proposed to do the same rehab for only P7.5 billion in 2016.
The price, Bondoc claimed, was quoted by Sumitomo Corp, which is the same company the DOTr has contracted to rehabilitate and maintain the MRT-3.
But Batan said Sumitomo made no such offer to MRTC.
"Sumitomo has not, formally or even informally, given a price quote to MRTC for the rehabilitation and for maintenance of the MRT-3 anytime in the last 5 years. And our proposal will be based on a very recent system audit on the current MRT 3 system," Batan said, quoting a statement that he said was from Sumitomo itself.
He also said the MRTC itself had no capability to rehabilitate Metro Manila's main railway.
"Nangongolekta lang yan ng renta mula sa DOTr at hindi naman talaga sya railway operator o railway developer," Batan said.
(MRTC just collects rent from the DOTr and is not really a railway operator or railway developer.)
The Japan International Cooperation Agency has committed to finance the rehab of the MRT-3.
The DOTr expects train service to improve by the third quarter of 2019.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/business/11/15/18/dotr-official-denies-mrt-rehab-overpriced
LRMC hires Balfour, MRail for LRT rehab
Light Rail Manila Corp., the joint venture of Ayala Corp. and Metro Pacific Investments Corp., signed a P650-million contract with First Balfour Inc. and MRail Inc. for the rehabilitation of 11 rectifier substations along the 21-kilometer line of LRT Line 1.
“As they power our trains, the substations are absolutely critical to providing reliable electricity supply and efficient operations of trains,” LRMC president and chief executive Juan Alfonso said.
The rehabilitation of the substations will take two years to complete and involves the replacement of major substation equipment, such as the critical switch gears, rectifiers, transformer, cables, the enhancement of the supervisory control and data acquisition system which allows the real-time monitoring of faults at the substations, and the modernization of fire detection and suppression systems.
“Some of these substations are 30 years old and need to be modernized to ensure reliability and efficiency of electric supply to our trains,” Alfonso added.
The project is part of the ongoing LRT-1 system improvements, which include the rehabilitation of trains, renovation of the 20 stations, as well as the structural enhancements of the parapets.
The upgrade has increased the number of trains from 77 to 112 in its first three years, enabling LRMC to increase trips and accommodate more passengers.
LRMC in February this year signed a P450-million contract with Voith Digital Solutions Australia GmBH and Co KH to rehabilitate and upgrade the trains of Light Rail Transit Line 1.
The monthly ridership on LRT-1 hit a record high of 14 million in August this year.
LRMC won the bidding for the 11.7-kilometer Cavite extension project and took over the operation of LRT Line 1 on Sept. 12, 2015.
The Cavite extension will connect into the existing system immediately south of the Baclaran station and will extend to Niog, Bacoor, Cavite.
“As they power our trains, the substations are absolutely critical to providing reliable electricity supply and efficient operations of trains,” LRMC president and chief executive Juan Alfonso said.
The rehabilitation of the substations will take two years to complete and involves the replacement of major substation equipment, such as the critical switch gears, rectifiers, transformer, cables, the enhancement of the supervisory control and data acquisition system which allows the real-time monitoring of faults at the substations, and the modernization of fire detection and suppression systems.
“Some of these substations are 30 years old and need to be modernized to ensure reliability and efficiency of electric supply to our trains,” Alfonso added.
The project is part of the ongoing LRT-1 system improvements, which include the rehabilitation of trains, renovation of the 20 stations, as well as the structural enhancements of the parapets.
The upgrade has increased the number of trains from 77 to 112 in its first three years, enabling LRMC to increase trips and accommodate more passengers.
LRMC in February this year signed a P450-million contract with Voith Digital Solutions Australia GmBH and Co KH to rehabilitate and upgrade the trains of Light Rail Transit Line 1.
The monthly ridership on LRT-1 hit a record high of 14 million in August this year.
LRMC won the bidding for the 11.7-kilometer Cavite extension project and took over the operation of LRT Line 1 on Sept. 12, 2015.
The Cavite extension will connect into the existing system immediately south of the Baclaran station and will extend to Niog, Bacoor, Cavite.
Thursday, November 15, 2018
LRMC signs deal with First Balfour, MRail for LRT-1 rehab
The Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) on Thursday signed a P650-million deal with First Balfour Inc. and MRail Inc. for the rehabilitation of 11 substations of the Light Rail Transit-1 (LRT-1).
The rehabilitation, which would take two years to complete, would replace substation equipment such as “critical switch gears, rectifiers, transformer and cables.”
It will also enhance the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) to allow “real-time” monitoring of faults of the substations as well as the modernization of fire detection and suppression systems.
LRMC Chief Juan Alfonso said the rehabilitation of some 30-year-old substations was meant to enhance the electricity supply and the LRT-1 operations itself.
“As they power our trains, the substations are absolutely critical to providing reliable electricity supply and efficient operations of trains,” Alfonso said in a statement. “They also allow us to use newer, more sustainable technology to support our commitments to the environment as part of our ISO 45000 certification.”
The project is part of the improvements being implemented at the LRT-1 system such as rehabilitation of trains, renovation of 20 stations, and structural enhancements of the parapets.
The upgrade has increased the number of trains from 77 to 122. It also allowed the LMRC to heighten the number of trips and passengers.
The LRMC is a joint company of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation’s Metro Pacific Light Rail Corporation (MLPRC), Ayala Corporation’s Infrastructure Holdings Corporation (AC Infra), and the Philippine Investment Alliance for Infrastructure Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) PTE Ltd. (MIHPL). /ee
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1054034/lrmc-signs-deal-with-first-balfour-mrail-for-lrt-1-rehab
The rehabilitation, which would take two years to complete, would replace substation equipment such as “critical switch gears, rectifiers, transformer and cables.”
It will also enhance the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) to allow “real-time” monitoring of faults of the substations as well as the modernization of fire detection and suppression systems.
LRMC Chief Juan Alfonso said the rehabilitation of some 30-year-old substations was meant to enhance the electricity supply and the LRT-1 operations itself.
“As they power our trains, the substations are absolutely critical to providing reliable electricity supply and efficient operations of trains,” Alfonso said in a statement. “They also allow us to use newer, more sustainable technology to support our commitments to the environment as part of our ISO 45000 certification.”
The project is part of the improvements being implemented at the LRT-1 system such as rehabilitation of trains, renovation of 20 stations, and structural enhancements of the parapets.
The upgrade has increased the number of trains from 77 to 122. It also allowed the LMRC to heighten the number of trips and passengers.
The LRMC is a joint company of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation’s Metro Pacific Light Rail Corporation (MLPRC), Ayala Corporation’s Infrastructure Holdings Corporation (AC Infra), and the Philippine Investment Alliance for Infrastructure Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) PTE Ltd. (MIHPL). /ee
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1054034/lrmc-signs-deal-with-first-balfour-mrail-for-lrt-1-rehab
LRT-1 operator taps First Balfour, MRail for rehab works
Light Rail Manila, the LRT-1 operator, said Thursday it tapped First Balfour and MRail Inc for a P650-million rehabilitation project.
The 2-year initiative requires the replacement of power substation equipment and the upgrade of fire detection and suppression systems, LRMC said in a statement.
"As they power our trains, the substations are absolutely critical to providing reliable electricity supply and efficient operations of trains," said LRMC president and CEO Juan Alfonso.
The power project is part of an ongoing renovation of the LRT-1 line, which stretches from Roosevelt Avenue in Quezon City to Baclaran in Paranaque City, LRMC said.
With the upgrades, LRMC said it raised the number of trains to 112 from 77 over 3 years, helping bring monthly ridership to a record 14 million last August, the train operator said.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/business/11/15/18/lrt-1-operator-taps-first-balfour-mrail-for-rehab-works
The 2-year initiative requires the replacement of power substation equipment and the upgrade of fire detection and suppression systems, LRMC said in a statement.
"As they power our trains, the substations are absolutely critical to providing reliable electricity supply and efficient operations of trains," said LRMC president and CEO Juan Alfonso.
The power project is part of an ongoing renovation of the LRT-1 line, which stretches from Roosevelt Avenue in Quezon City to Baclaran in Paranaque City, LRMC said.
With the upgrades, LRMC said it raised the number of trains to 112 from 77 over 3 years, helping bring monthly ridership to a record 14 million last August, the train operator said.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/business/11/15/18/lrt-1-operator-taps-first-balfour-mrail-for-rehab-works
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Construction of 2 Zamboanga City flyovers starts this month
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Department of Public Works and Highways-9 (DPWH-9) is eyeing to simultaneously undertake the construction of two flyovers and road widening projects in this city this November.
Leoncio Solamillo, DPWH-9 construction division chief, on Tuesday said the construction of the two flyovers will be undertaken by the regional office and the road widening, by the District Engineering Office of the agency.
The construction of the two flyovers will cost PHP458.14 million and is aimed at easing the traffic problem in this city.
One of the two flyovers will be constructed at the junction of the Maria Clara Lorenzo Lobregat (MCLL) Highway-Governor Camins-Veterans Avenues while the other one will be at the junction of Labuan-Limpapa Gabilan-San Roque.
Solamillo said they will conduct a rerouting traffic scheme dry-run on Thursday, Nov. 15, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the junction of MCLL highway-Governor Camins-Veterans Avenues to check on the volume of traffic in the area.
A rerouting of traffic will be implemented once the construction of the flyovers starts, which Solamillo said will start this month.
The flyover project was supposed to start on October 3 but was deferred upon the request of the city government in view of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival.
Meanwhile, the DPWH District Engineering Office (DPWH-DEO) has started the initial ground works in preparation for the road widening project along the stretch of Governor Camins Avenue from the intersection of Canelar-Sta. Maria road to the intersection of Mayor Vitaliano Agan Avenue.
The DPWH-DEO is tasked to widen the road by adding two lanes with a funding of PHP75.4 million. An amount of PHP18 million has also been allocated to widen, also by two lanes, the San Ignacio Bridge along Governor Camins Avenue. (PNA)
Leoncio Solamillo, DPWH-9 construction division chief, on Tuesday said the construction of the two flyovers will be undertaken by the regional office and the road widening, by the District Engineering Office of the agency.
The construction of the two flyovers will cost PHP458.14 million and is aimed at easing the traffic problem in this city.
One of the two flyovers will be constructed at the junction of the Maria Clara Lorenzo Lobregat (MCLL) Highway-Governor Camins-Veterans Avenues while the other one will be at the junction of Labuan-Limpapa Gabilan-San Roque.
Solamillo said they will conduct a rerouting traffic scheme dry-run on Thursday, Nov. 15, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the junction of MCLL highway-Governor Camins-Veterans Avenues to check on the volume of traffic in the area.
A rerouting of traffic will be implemented once the construction of the flyovers starts, which Solamillo said will start this month.
The flyover project was supposed to start on October 3 but was deferred upon the request of the city government in view of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival.
Meanwhile, the DPWH District Engineering Office (DPWH-DEO) has started the initial ground works in preparation for the road widening project along the stretch of Governor Camins Avenue from the intersection of Canelar-Sta. Maria road to the intersection of Mayor Vitaliano Agan Avenue.
The DPWH-DEO is tasked to widen the road by adding two lanes with a funding of PHP75.4 million. An amount of PHP18 million has also been allocated to widen, also by two lanes, the San Ignacio Bridge along Governor Camins Avenue. (PNA)
Toll execs eye bus ban on Skyway
An official of the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) on Tuesday said they are eyeing to impose a ban on buses to traverse along elevated parts of the Skyway.
TRB spokesperson Bert Suansing said the initiative aims to prevent incidents of overspeeding bus drivers which might result in accidents on the major thoroughfare.
“Pinag-uusapan pa lang na pagbawalan ang mga buses sa elevated portion ng Skyway kasi nga masyadong matulin magpatakbo ang mga drivers niyan. Lumalabag na sila sa ating regulasyon sa loob ng tollway. Kasi ang mga bus ang maximum speed nila dapat ay 80 kilometers per hour (kph). Mas madalas mabilis pa sa 80 kph ang tinatakbo nila (We are considering not allowing buses along the elevated portion of the Skyway because their drivers are driving too fast. They are violating the regulations on the tollway which sets a speed limit of 80 kilometers per hours. They usually breach the 80 kph speed limit),” Suansing said in a radio interview.
The TRB official said drivers who are overspeeding on the Skyway pose dangers to passengers and other motorists.
The agency is currently conducting simulations on the effect of the proposed bus ban, he noted.
“Atin pong i-aanunsyo sa publiko yan kapag naipatupad (We'll announce this to the public if this will be implemented),” Suansing said.
A truck ban has been implemented on the Skyway since November 2016 to improve traffic flow and ensure road safety.
Skyway is a 32-kilometer elevated expressway stretching from Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati City to Alabang-Zapote Road in Muntinlupa City, catering to an average of 300,000 passengers daily.
TRB spokesperson Bert Suansing said the initiative aims to prevent incidents of overspeeding bus drivers which might result in accidents on the major thoroughfare.
“Pinag-uusapan pa lang na pagbawalan ang mga buses sa elevated portion ng Skyway kasi nga masyadong matulin magpatakbo ang mga drivers niyan. Lumalabag na sila sa ating regulasyon sa loob ng tollway. Kasi ang mga bus ang maximum speed nila dapat ay 80 kilometers per hour (kph). Mas madalas mabilis pa sa 80 kph ang tinatakbo nila (We are considering not allowing buses along the elevated portion of the Skyway because their drivers are driving too fast. They are violating the regulations on the tollway which sets a speed limit of 80 kilometers per hours. They usually breach the 80 kph speed limit),” Suansing said in a radio interview.
The TRB official said drivers who are overspeeding on the Skyway pose dangers to passengers and other motorists.
The agency is currently conducting simulations on the effect of the proposed bus ban, he noted.
“Atin pong i-aanunsyo sa publiko yan kapag naipatupad (We'll announce this to the public if this will be implemented),” Suansing said.
A truck ban has been implemented on the Skyway since November 2016 to improve traffic flow and ensure road safety.
Skyway is a 32-kilometer elevated expressway stretching from Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati City to Alabang-Zapote Road in Muntinlupa City, catering to an average of 300,000 passengers daily.
MRT rehab to start in January
The rehabilitation work for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) is expected to start in January, an official of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Monday.
“Transition is already ongoing up to December; the full mobilization will be by January,” DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said in a text message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
This follows last Thursday’s signing of the PHP18-billion (38-billion Japanese yen) loan agreement for the MRT rehabilitation project by the Department of Finance and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
The loan agreement covers the repair and maintenance of the MRT-3’s electromechanical components, power supply, rail tracks, and depot equipment, and the overhaul of its 72 light rail vehicles.
The DOTr has earlier said that Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will take over the rehabilitation and maintenance of MRT-3.
Sumitomo-Mitsubishi designed and built the railway system from 1998 to 2000 and maintained the system from 2000 to 2012.
The DOTr expects an improvement in the MRT operations starting in the third quarter of next year, with the gradual increase of its passenger capacity.
It also projects the speed of the MRT trains to improve from 30 km. per hour (kph) to 60 kph, with its headway time reduced from the current seven minutes to 3.5 minutes.
The number of trains is also expected to increase by 20 train sets from the current 15 trains during peak hours.
The upgrade of the MRT-3 will take about 43 months, with the first 26 months focused on the rehabilitation of the entire system.
The 16-km. MRT rail line from North Ave. in Quezon City to Taft Ave. in Pasay City currently accommodates an average of 300,000 passengers per day.
“Transition is already ongoing up to December; the full mobilization will be by January,” DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said in a text message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
This follows last Thursday’s signing of the PHP18-billion (38-billion Japanese yen) loan agreement for the MRT rehabilitation project by the Department of Finance and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
The loan agreement covers the repair and maintenance of the MRT-3’s electromechanical components, power supply, rail tracks, and depot equipment, and the overhaul of its 72 light rail vehicles.
The DOTr has earlier said that Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will take over the rehabilitation and maintenance of MRT-3.
Sumitomo-Mitsubishi designed and built the railway system from 1998 to 2000 and maintained the system from 2000 to 2012.
The DOTr expects an improvement in the MRT operations starting in the third quarter of next year, with the gradual increase of its passenger capacity.
It also projects the speed of the MRT trains to improve from 30 km. per hour (kph) to 60 kph, with its headway time reduced from the current seven minutes to 3.5 minutes.
The number of trains is also expected to increase by 20 train sets from the current 15 trains during peak hours.
The upgrade of the MRT-3 will take about 43 months, with the first 26 months focused on the rehabilitation of the entire system.
The 16-km. MRT rail line from North Ave. in Quezon City to Taft Ave. in Pasay City currently accommodates an average of 300,000 passengers per day.
Cancel LRT-1 extension award to Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium
IT has been more than three years since the Light Rail Manila Corp. — the consortium of Ayala Corp., Metro Pacific Light Rail Corp. of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings Phil. — won the award to build, operate and maintain the P64.9-billion Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 extension project to Cavite. But until today, not a single concrete post for the extension line has been erected by the consortium.
Metro Pacific Light Rail Corp. holds a 55 percent stake in the consortium while AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp. of Ayala Corp. has 35 percent. Philippine Investment Alliance for Infrastructure’s Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings Phil. controls the remaining 10 percent.
Awarded sometime in September 2014 by then Transportation and Communications Secretary (and Liberal Party President) Joseph Emilio A. Abaya, the Ayala-Metro Pacific consortium was supposed to begin construction works for the LRT-1 extension within a maximum of one year from the signing of the concession agreement, or by October 2015. Under the terms of the award, the project should be fully operational within 54 months, or by May 2019. With less than seven months to go, it’s a foregone conclusion that the Ayala-Metro Pacific consortium will violate its contractual commitment to finish the LRT-1 extension to Cavite before the imposed deadline.
This certainly puts current Transportation Secretary Arturo Tugade in a bind. If he tolerates further delays, the DOTr stands to be accused of being a “captured agency” of Philippine business behemoths. The only logical and transparent way out for Tugade therefore is to cancel the LRT-1 extension award to the Ayala-Metro Pacific consortium. He certainly would have all the factual and legal bases to do so.
As early as 2014, then Transportation Secretary Abaya already announced that the Ayala-Metro Pacific consortium could start with the P65-billion LRT-1 extension project even without the decision of the Supreme Court on the common station in North Avenue, Quezon City.
This was after the high tribunal issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) when the SM Group contested the then DoTC’s move to relocate the P1.4-billion MRT-LRT common station project to Trinoma, an adjacent mall owned by competitor Ayala Land. “The TRO is in the transfer of the station. There is no restraint in the award of LRT 1 Cavite Extension,” Abaya clarified then.
Since then, the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium has moved forward with the project but only in press releases rather than construction activities.
Six months after it was supposed to begin civil works on the extension project, the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium tried to wiggle out of its contractual timeline by blaming the Yellow government (yes, their benefactor) for supposed delays in the delivery of right-of-way and in the procurement of new trains. That’s’ a bunch of crap — and they know it!
Even before the concession for the LRT-1 extension was bid out, all the six prospective bidders for the project (including the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium) were aware that the right-of-way (ROW) acquisition requirement was already close to being completed. As far back as January 2014, the then DoTC had already completed 92.34 percent of the ROW acquisition requirement for the Baclaran-to-Dr. A. Santos segment; 69.2 percent of the Dr. A. Santos-to-Zapote segment; and 84.2 percent of the Zapote-to-Niog segment.
The ROW requirement becomes even less significant since it reportedly comprises less than 15 percent of the entire extension project. This means that the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium could have started civil works on the other 85 percent — the non-contentious segment — if it wanted to as far back as 2016. Instead, the consortium dilly-dallied with all sorts of lame excuses.
Why? Because they didn’t want the billions of pesos needed to fund the project to come out from their pockets. Apparently, the ultimate strategy was to have LRT-1 passengers to pay for a big chunk of the extension line to Cavite.
This much was admitted by the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium when it said that it was seeking a P5 increase in LRT-1 fares to fund the extension of the line to the Cavite suburbs. In fact, the company even warned that it might not be able to complete the 11.7-kilometer extension project by 2021 without the fare hike.
Genius talaga itong Metro Pacific-Ayala! Imagine, frying the riding public in its own lard.
So, whatever happened to the consortium’s express guarantee in its winning bid that it had the financial muscle to fund the P65-billion extension project? And what about its public statements that the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium had already secured a P25-billion loan facility from three banks and that the remainder could be easily funded by equity from LRMC?
The consortium’s ingenious funding scheme earned a quick retort from Tugade — as it should. The Transportation secretary said companies should stop making the government a “hostage” by saying the construction of vital infrastructure is dependent on tariff increases under their concession agreements. “They should not say the extension of the LRT is dependent on the rate increase. They should not make us a hostage,” Tugade said.
Tugade also thumbed down the suggestion by the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium for the government to subsidize the fare increase, saying that “if you will do business with the government, there should be no form of subsidy and guarantee.”
After quickly being cut down by the DOTr chief, the consortium replied that it will move forward with the construction of the extension even without the tariff adjustment. Yun naman pala eh. What are you waiting for, then?
If the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium can’t put up a single post by the end of this year, it doesn’t deserve to keep the concession for the LRT-1 extension a minute longer.
https://www.manilatimes.net/cancel-lrt-1-extension-award-to-metro-pacific-ayala-consortium/466774/
Metro Pacific Light Rail Corp. holds a 55 percent stake in the consortium while AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp. of Ayala Corp. has 35 percent. Philippine Investment Alliance for Infrastructure’s Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings Phil. controls the remaining 10 percent.
Awarded sometime in September 2014 by then Transportation and Communications Secretary (and Liberal Party President) Joseph Emilio A. Abaya, the Ayala-Metro Pacific consortium was supposed to begin construction works for the LRT-1 extension within a maximum of one year from the signing of the concession agreement, or by October 2015. Under the terms of the award, the project should be fully operational within 54 months, or by May 2019. With less than seven months to go, it’s a foregone conclusion that the Ayala-Metro Pacific consortium will violate its contractual commitment to finish the LRT-1 extension to Cavite before the imposed deadline.
This certainly puts current Transportation Secretary Arturo Tugade in a bind. If he tolerates further delays, the DOTr stands to be accused of being a “captured agency” of Philippine business behemoths. The only logical and transparent way out for Tugade therefore is to cancel the LRT-1 extension award to the Ayala-Metro Pacific consortium. He certainly would have all the factual and legal bases to do so.
As early as 2014, then Transportation Secretary Abaya already announced that the Ayala-Metro Pacific consortium could start with the P65-billion LRT-1 extension project even without the decision of the Supreme Court on the common station in North Avenue, Quezon City.
This was after the high tribunal issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) when the SM Group contested the then DoTC’s move to relocate the P1.4-billion MRT-LRT common station project to Trinoma, an adjacent mall owned by competitor Ayala Land. “The TRO is in the transfer of the station. There is no restraint in the award of LRT 1 Cavite Extension,” Abaya clarified then.
Since then, the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium has moved forward with the project but only in press releases rather than construction activities.
Six months after it was supposed to begin civil works on the extension project, the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium tried to wiggle out of its contractual timeline by blaming the Yellow government (yes, their benefactor) for supposed delays in the delivery of right-of-way and in the procurement of new trains. That’s’ a bunch of crap — and they know it!
Even before the concession for the LRT-1 extension was bid out, all the six prospective bidders for the project (including the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium) were aware that the right-of-way (ROW) acquisition requirement was already close to being completed. As far back as January 2014, the then DoTC had already completed 92.34 percent of the ROW acquisition requirement for the Baclaran-to-Dr. A. Santos segment; 69.2 percent of the Dr. A. Santos-to-Zapote segment; and 84.2 percent of the Zapote-to-Niog segment.
The ROW requirement becomes even less significant since it reportedly comprises less than 15 percent of the entire extension project. This means that the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium could have started civil works on the other 85 percent — the non-contentious segment — if it wanted to as far back as 2016. Instead, the consortium dilly-dallied with all sorts of lame excuses.
Why? Because they didn’t want the billions of pesos needed to fund the project to come out from their pockets. Apparently, the ultimate strategy was to have LRT-1 passengers to pay for a big chunk of the extension line to Cavite.
This much was admitted by the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium when it said that it was seeking a P5 increase in LRT-1 fares to fund the extension of the line to the Cavite suburbs. In fact, the company even warned that it might not be able to complete the 11.7-kilometer extension project by 2021 without the fare hike.
Genius talaga itong Metro Pacific-Ayala! Imagine, frying the riding public in its own lard.
So, whatever happened to the consortium’s express guarantee in its winning bid that it had the financial muscle to fund the P65-billion extension project? And what about its public statements that the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium had already secured a P25-billion loan facility from three banks and that the remainder could be easily funded by equity from LRMC?
The consortium’s ingenious funding scheme earned a quick retort from Tugade — as it should. The Transportation secretary said companies should stop making the government a “hostage” by saying the construction of vital infrastructure is dependent on tariff increases under their concession agreements. “They should not say the extension of the LRT is dependent on the rate increase. They should not make us a hostage,” Tugade said.
Tugade also thumbed down the suggestion by the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium for the government to subsidize the fare increase, saying that “if you will do business with the government, there should be no form of subsidy and guarantee.”
After quickly being cut down by the DOTr chief, the consortium replied that it will move forward with the construction of the extension even without the tariff adjustment. Yun naman pala eh. What are you waiting for, then?
If the Metro Pacific-Ayala consortium can’t put up a single post by the end of this year, it doesn’t deserve to keep the concession for the LRT-1 extension a minute longer.
https://www.manilatimes.net/cancel-lrt-1-extension-award-to-metro-pacific-ayala-consortium/466774/
Makati subway to make 6k jobs
Mayor Abigail Binay on Monday assured that the Public Rail Transport in the City of Makati will generate 6,000 jobs and new economic opportunities for residents once this subway system project is completed as planned in 2023.
The subway system, the first of its kind in the country, is a joint venture of the city government and a consortium of local and foreign investors, with no cash out on the part of the city.
The 30-year concession with the consortium includes maintenance and repair of the coaches and the control hub.
“The project will create around 6,000 new jobs for Makatizens and numerous economic opportunities just for the construction and operation of the train system alone. This does not include additional jobs which will be created as a result of the efficient transport system in the city,” Binay said.
The city chief executive expressed her full commitment to the project’s completion within five years, which she envisioned to be her lasting legacy to the people of Makati.
“I want this to be my legacy. It is time for a better and brighter future for everyone in Makati. I want the city to be truly livable, sustainable, inclusive, and resilient not just today but for the generations to come,” said Binay.
Binay also assured the public that the five-year construction period will not have adverse effects on traffic within Makati. This, she said, is one of the advantages of constructing a subway system. Since most of the work is done in tunnels underground, the disruption to daily traffic will be minimal.
“In just five years, Makati City, and the rest of the country will reap the benefits of having a reliable and efficient mass transport system. We are laying the groundwork for more advanced infrastructure and projects so our children can continue to be proud of the city they live in,” she emphasized.
The PRT system, which is scheduled to break ground before the end of the year, will have two tracks, up to 10 underground stations, and air-conditioned coaches which can accommodate 200 persons per car.
The entire system spans 10 kilometers with a train yard, maintenance depot, and central command center at ground level.
The stations will have at least 30 station entrances linked to destinations across Makati, which will spur the growth of small and medium businesses.
It will also be linked to ferry transport, interchanges to the existing MRT 3 line, as well as potential links to the future Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-funded Metro Manila subway, and to future parking structures and transport feeders outside the existing business districts.
Once completed, the PRT will be able to service up to 27,000 passengers per hour per direction. The system also promises an interval of three to six minutes between trains on the first year, with 12 operational trains.
By 2024, Makati City is eyeing to have 18 trains with a two- to four-minute interval. The City is also prepared to accommodate as many as 40,500 passengers per hour during peak hours. The train system will run on an 18-hour operational cycle.
Binay stressed that the PRT will leave cumulative positive impacts, not only in Makati but in neighboring cities as well. Current statistics estimate that there are five million employees in Makati during work days.
Since there are only around 500,000 city residents, this would mean millions of commuters and drivers entering the city every day.
The PRT will not only decongest major thoroughfares, but it is also expected to increase work productivity by cutting down the daily commute or travel time of workers.
According to JICA’s congestion valuations, the Philippines will gain at least US$600 million annually in GDP just for enhanced productivity.
Interestingly, the project will allow for an additional 320,000 residents in Makati City.
Besides enjoying a walkable city with considerably less pollution, residents will also enjoy 20 percent higher land values because of the new transport system. The figure was based on the experience of other Asian cities like Bangkok and Hong Kong.
More importantly, a reliable, comfortable, and highly-efficient mass transport system will result in less traffic congestion and parking woes in the country’s premier financial district. Feasibility studies project 270,000 fewer cars in the streets of Makati by 2048.
This makes the PRT a more eco-friendly and sustainable solution as well, with a projected reduction of 2.3 million tons of CO2 annually in greenhouse gas emission by 2048.
In pushing for the subway project, Mayor Binay cited Hong Kong’s MTR system which was introduced in 1979. It helped usher in a period of unprecedented urban mobility and economic growth. Now, 90 percent of Hong Kong residents and workers commute without a car, translating into more hours a day for business and family.
The MTR also makes US$7 billion and serves 1.7 billion riders. The system is so successful that they advise and manage rail systems in countries around the world.
On the other hand, Bangkok’s subway system was launched in 2004 and now serves 100 million riders per year across 35 stations. Mayor Abby noted that like the Bangkok line, Makati’s PRT will be operational even during floods.
Binay also pointed out that other cities like Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, and Jakarta are now experiencing less congestion in their financial centers after a mass transport system has been introduced.
http://manilastandard.net/news/national/280338/makati-subway-to-make-6k-jobs.html
The subway system, the first of its kind in the country, is a joint venture of the city government and a consortium of local and foreign investors, with no cash out on the part of the city.
The 30-year concession with the consortium includes maintenance and repair of the coaches and the control hub.
“The project will create around 6,000 new jobs for Makatizens and numerous economic opportunities just for the construction and operation of the train system alone. This does not include additional jobs which will be created as a result of the efficient transport system in the city,” Binay said.
The city chief executive expressed her full commitment to the project’s completion within five years, which she envisioned to be her lasting legacy to the people of Makati.
“I want this to be my legacy. It is time for a better and brighter future for everyone in Makati. I want the city to be truly livable, sustainable, inclusive, and resilient not just today but for the generations to come,” said Binay.
Binay also assured the public that the five-year construction period will not have adverse effects on traffic within Makati. This, she said, is one of the advantages of constructing a subway system. Since most of the work is done in tunnels underground, the disruption to daily traffic will be minimal.
“In just five years, Makati City, and the rest of the country will reap the benefits of having a reliable and efficient mass transport system. We are laying the groundwork for more advanced infrastructure and projects so our children can continue to be proud of the city they live in,” she emphasized.
The PRT system, which is scheduled to break ground before the end of the year, will have two tracks, up to 10 underground stations, and air-conditioned coaches which can accommodate 200 persons per car.
The entire system spans 10 kilometers with a train yard, maintenance depot, and central command center at ground level.
The stations will have at least 30 station entrances linked to destinations across Makati, which will spur the growth of small and medium businesses.
It will also be linked to ferry transport, interchanges to the existing MRT 3 line, as well as potential links to the future Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-funded Metro Manila subway, and to future parking structures and transport feeders outside the existing business districts.
Once completed, the PRT will be able to service up to 27,000 passengers per hour per direction. The system also promises an interval of three to six minutes between trains on the first year, with 12 operational trains.
By 2024, Makati City is eyeing to have 18 trains with a two- to four-minute interval. The City is also prepared to accommodate as many as 40,500 passengers per hour during peak hours. The train system will run on an 18-hour operational cycle.
Binay stressed that the PRT will leave cumulative positive impacts, not only in Makati but in neighboring cities as well. Current statistics estimate that there are five million employees in Makati during work days.
Since there are only around 500,000 city residents, this would mean millions of commuters and drivers entering the city every day.
The PRT will not only decongest major thoroughfares, but it is also expected to increase work productivity by cutting down the daily commute or travel time of workers.
According to JICA’s congestion valuations, the Philippines will gain at least US$600 million annually in GDP just for enhanced productivity.
Interestingly, the project will allow for an additional 320,000 residents in Makati City.
Besides enjoying a walkable city with considerably less pollution, residents will also enjoy 20 percent higher land values because of the new transport system. The figure was based on the experience of other Asian cities like Bangkok and Hong Kong.
More importantly, a reliable, comfortable, and highly-efficient mass transport system will result in less traffic congestion and parking woes in the country’s premier financial district. Feasibility studies project 270,000 fewer cars in the streets of Makati by 2048.
This makes the PRT a more eco-friendly and sustainable solution as well, with a projected reduction of 2.3 million tons of CO2 annually in greenhouse gas emission by 2048.
In pushing for the subway project, Mayor Binay cited Hong Kong’s MTR system which was introduced in 1979. It helped usher in a period of unprecedented urban mobility and economic growth. Now, 90 percent of Hong Kong residents and workers commute without a car, translating into more hours a day for business and family.
The MTR also makes US$7 billion and serves 1.7 billion riders. The system is so successful that they advise and manage rail systems in countries around the world.
On the other hand, Bangkok’s subway system was launched in 2004 and now serves 100 million riders per year across 35 stations. Mayor Abby noted that like the Bangkok line, Makati’s PRT will be operational even during floods.
Binay also pointed out that other cities like Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, and Jakarta are now experiencing less congestion in their financial centers after a mass transport system has been introduced.
http://manilastandard.net/news/national/280338/makati-subway-to-make-6k-jobs.html
Monday, November 12, 2018
MRT-3 rehab to be finished by Q1 of 2021 — DOTr
The full rehabilitation process on the Metro Rail Transit line 3 (MRT-3) will be finished by the first quarter of 2021, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said on Sunday.
The rehabilitation plan of the government will span for 26 months after the Philippines and Japan signed a loan agreement on Thursday.
“Inaasahan nating matatapos by the 26th month, so mula January 2019, magre-rehab ‘yan buong 2019-2020 at hanggang sa 1st quarter ng 2021 at doon matatapos ang kabuuang rehabilitation,” DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said in an interview with dzBB.
Despite the upgrade on the line, Batan has assured the public that there would be no fare increase for the MRT-3.
Part of the rehabilitation process is the rollout of the Dalian trains on the line, Batan said. Currently, one Dalian train has been rolled out on the tracks of the MRT-3.
Batan said that the government still has to ensure the safety of the trains before it could fully rollout other Dalian trains on the line.
“Ang dahilan kung bakit isang train set pa lang napapatakbo natin ay dahil tatlong bagon pa lang ang nakakatapos sa mahabang listahan ng testing and commissioning procedures,” he said.
“Isang buong train set ng Dalian train na binubuo ng tatlong bagon. ‘Yan ay kasalukuyang dumaraan sa gradual deployment at pinapatakbo natin tuwing off peak hours at saka natin titingnan kung pwede natin iakyat during peak hours,” he added.
A new service hours has been set by the MRT-3 management for the Dalian train in order to reach the 150-hour requirement by next month.
On Saturday, the three-coach train of Dalian started to ferry passengers on full operations during weekends. However, on weekdays, the train would only operate on off-peak hours.
A total of 48 Dalian coaches were purchased during the Aquino administration for the MRT-3, but were stored in the MRT-3 depot for three years due to alleged “compatibility issues.” /je
The rehabilitation plan of the government will span for 26 months after the Philippines and Japan signed a loan agreement on Thursday.
“Inaasahan nating matatapos by the 26th month, so mula January 2019, magre-rehab ‘yan buong 2019-2020 at hanggang sa 1st quarter ng 2021 at doon matatapos ang kabuuang rehabilitation,” DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said in an interview with dzBB.
Despite the upgrade on the line, Batan has assured the public that there would be no fare increase for the MRT-3.
Part of the rehabilitation process is the rollout of the Dalian trains on the line, Batan said. Currently, one Dalian train has been rolled out on the tracks of the MRT-3.
Batan said that the government still has to ensure the safety of the trains before it could fully rollout other Dalian trains on the line.
“Ang dahilan kung bakit isang train set pa lang napapatakbo natin ay dahil tatlong bagon pa lang ang nakakatapos sa mahabang listahan ng testing and commissioning procedures,” he said.
“Isang buong train set ng Dalian train na binubuo ng tatlong bagon. ‘Yan ay kasalukuyang dumaraan sa gradual deployment at pinapatakbo natin tuwing off peak hours at saka natin titingnan kung pwede natin iakyat during peak hours,” he added.
A new service hours has been set by the MRT-3 management for the Dalian train in order to reach the 150-hour requirement by next month.
On Saturday, the three-coach train of Dalian started to ferry passengers on full operations during weekends. However, on weekdays, the train would only operate on off-peak hours.
A total of 48 Dalian coaches were purchased during the Aquino administration for the MRT-3, but were stored in the MRT-3 depot for three years due to alleged “compatibility issues.” /je
North-south commuter railway will require P5-B subsidies–Neda
FILIPINO taxpayers need to extend an average of P5 billion worth of subsidies for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System approved by a Cabinet panel, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda).
Apart from the subsidy, the Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) Cabinet Committee (CabCom) last week also recommended to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) the generation of additional revenues on account of the 76-percent increase in the project’s cost.
With the change in scope of the project, the total cost of the NSCR, a project of the DOTr and Philippine National Railways (PNR), increased to P777.55 billion, from P440.88 billion. The project is funded by loans from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
“The government will subsidize an average of P5 billion per year to cover capital, operating and renewal costs of the project—an investment that is expected to generate substantial economic activity, create more jobs, increase incomes and deliver a more comfortable commuting experience,” the Neda said in a statement.
“The DOTr was instructed by the Committee to implement measures that would allow the national government to maximize non-farebox revenues, such as incremental taxes from increased property value through revenue-sharing arrangements with concerned LGUs and through the development of national government properties in the project area,” it added.
The increase in project cost is attributed to three factors as determined by the detailed engineering designs, such as the shift to elevated viaducts instead of at-grade structures to improve operational efficiencies and safety.
The Neda said factors pushing up costs include the adoption of standard gauge instead of narrow gauge, in compliance with government standards to ensure seamless operations for all sections; and the increase in the number of trains and change from single to double tracks for the Malolos-Clark Railway Project (MCRP).
The cost will also cover resettlement activities, meeting the social and environmental safeguards of the ADB and JICA. This will also ensure proper housing and welfare support for around 12,901 affected informal settler families.
The project will bring together the NSCR Phase 1 (Malolos-Tutuban), the PNR South Commuter Railway (Solis-Calamba) and the MCRP, creating a 147-kilometer elevated, double-track and seamless connection from Clark International Airport to Los Banos, Laguna, with 36 stations.
The NSCR System will link with existing railway lines such as the LRT 1, LRT 2 and MRT 3, as well as with the upcoming Metro Manila Subway.
According to the DOTr, the NSCR System, compared to other railway projects in Asia, is more cost-effective. Per kilometer, the project costs about $100 million.
The rail system is expected to be partially operational by 2022 with a daily ridership of 340,000 passengers. It will be fully operational by 2023 with a daily ridership of 550,000 passengers.
Apart from the subsidy, the Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) Cabinet Committee (CabCom) last week also recommended to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) the generation of additional revenues on account of the 76-percent increase in the project’s cost.
With the change in scope of the project, the total cost of the NSCR, a project of the DOTr and Philippine National Railways (PNR), increased to P777.55 billion, from P440.88 billion. The project is funded by loans from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
“The government will subsidize an average of P5 billion per year to cover capital, operating and renewal costs of the project—an investment that is expected to generate substantial economic activity, create more jobs, increase incomes and deliver a more comfortable commuting experience,” the Neda said in a statement.
“The DOTr was instructed by the Committee to implement measures that would allow the national government to maximize non-farebox revenues, such as incremental taxes from increased property value through revenue-sharing arrangements with concerned LGUs and through the development of national government properties in the project area,” it added.
The increase in project cost is attributed to three factors as determined by the detailed engineering designs, such as the shift to elevated viaducts instead of at-grade structures to improve operational efficiencies and safety.
The Neda said factors pushing up costs include the adoption of standard gauge instead of narrow gauge, in compliance with government standards to ensure seamless operations for all sections; and the increase in the number of trains and change from single to double tracks for the Malolos-Clark Railway Project (MCRP).
The cost will also cover resettlement activities, meeting the social and environmental safeguards of the ADB and JICA. This will also ensure proper housing and welfare support for around 12,901 affected informal settler families.
The project will bring together the NSCR Phase 1 (Malolos-Tutuban), the PNR South Commuter Railway (Solis-Calamba) and the MCRP, creating a 147-kilometer elevated, double-track and seamless connection from Clark International Airport to Los Banos, Laguna, with 36 stations.
The NSCR System will link with existing railway lines such as the LRT 1, LRT 2 and MRT 3, as well as with the upcoming Metro Manila Subway.
According to the DOTr, the NSCR System, compared to other railway projects in Asia, is more cost-effective. Per kilometer, the project costs about $100 million.
The rail system is expected to be partially operational by 2022 with a daily ridership of 340,000 passengers. It will be fully operational by 2023 with a daily ridership of 550,000 passengers.
Sunday, November 11, 2018
City mulls aid for Natonin victims
Mayor Mauricio G. Domogan ordered the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to study the possibility of allocating funds as assistance to Natonin, Mountain Province, which was ravaged by Typhoon Rosita.
He also instructed the CSWDO to look at how the city can extend assistance to the bereaved families of the three residents of Baguio who were among the fatalities in Natonin.
“We sympathize with Natonin so we have to look into ways on how we can help in the recovery and rehabilitation of the municipality. The people will need all the help from various sectors to allow them to recover from the effects of the typhoon,” Domogan said.
He added the landslide that buried the buildings of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Natonin should serve as a wakeup call for everyone to come up with measures on how to adapt to the impacts of the extreme weather conditions brought about by climate change.
Domogan said it is fortunate that Baguio City was not severely affected by the recent typhoon so it must share some of its resources to Natonin to aid the town in its recovery and rehabilitation plans.
The city government has been allocating funds as financial assistance to local government units affected by typhoons.
He also instructed the CSWDO to look at how the city can extend assistance to the bereaved families of the three residents of Baguio who were among the fatalities in Natonin.
“We sympathize with Natonin so we have to look into ways on how we can help in the recovery and rehabilitation of the municipality. The people will need all the help from various sectors to allow them to recover from the effects of the typhoon,” Domogan said.
He added the landslide that buried the buildings of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Natonin should serve as a wakeup call for everyone to come up with measures on how to adapt to the impacts of the extreme weather conditions brought about by climate change.
Domogan said it is fortunate that Baguio City was not severely affected by the recent typhoon so it must share some of its resources to Natonin to aid the town in its recovery and rehabilitation plans.
The city government has been allocating funds as financial assistance to local government units affected by typhoons.
Not easy like Sunday morning
DPWH says drying palay on national roads can get you a fine and jail time. I am more worried about rice bodegas drying up.
***
Baguio’s anti-profanity ordinance may be unconstitutional. Swearing solemnly during oath taking ceremonies is now in danger.
***
French composer Francis Lai of “Love Story” fame passed away. Besides writing music for stars like Edith Piaf and Juliette Greco, Lai was perhaps best known for creating the title track to the 1970 box-office hit “Love Story.” Who can forget the duo Ali MacGraw and Ryan O’Neal that starred in this romantic flick? Lai also created the well acclaimed “A Man and A Woman.”
***
The governments of Japan and the Philippines signed this Thursday an P18-billion loan agreement for the maintenance and rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit line 3 (MRT-3). This is the train system I can get excited about — not the forthcoming Train 2 that could be “taxing” on my wallet.
***
The third Telco was finally announced. The Filipinos are welcoming this move to break the mighty duopoly. We have been singing the tune “Who Can I Turn To” for decades for being victims of fast billing and slow service.
The winner Mislatel is a consortium of Davao tycoon Dennis Uy’s companies (Udenna Corp. and Chelsea Logistics Holdings Corp.), local firm Mindanao Islamic Telephone Corp., and China’s own provider, the China Telecommunications Corp. or China Telecom.
I just hope that the three will not emerge like the game “Triopoly.”
***
Singaporean businessman apologizes to DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) official. In an unexpected turn of events, after days of tension at the newly reopened Boracay, Singaporean businessman Peter Tay went to Casa Pilar in Station 3. Tay approached DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporda not to confront him about the new watersports activity policy, but to apologize. I hope that everybody can now breathe clean air in the rehabilitated island. Misunderstandings can pollute the air quickly.
The usual Boracay critics are now spewing toxic fumes against DENR overstepping the boundaries of its power when it issued a warning on authorized water sports that can threaten the environment. DENR said it would only allow sports activities APPROVED BY the HOTELS. So, what are you talking about? Isn’t it that the hotels are under the supervision of the DoT (Department of Tourism) and DILG (the Department of the Interior and Local Government)?
We sure can dampen the spirit in an ugly way. Reports are saying that Boracay visitors are back to their old bad habits of throwing trash and drinking liquor on the beach, while vendors returned to the seaside to sell their wares. They said that thieves have descended on the island again, approaching foreigners and convincing them to have sex before they pick their pockets. I wish there is a jail seen by the public to shame these culprits.
***
In a complaint filed before the Ombudsman last October 31, the employees claimed PhilHealth Acting President Roy Ferrer earned some P604,080 in professional fees from March 2017 to June
2018, while also receiving about P1.55 million in salaries and allowances since 2017. Let us hear the side of Ferrer. If there’s merit to the accusation, it can really be hazardous to our health.
***
Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said one of the joint exploration projects likely to be signed anytime soon is with China state-owned oil company China National Offshore Oil Corp. (CNOOC). Joint exploration is nothing new and is adopted by most countries all over the world. Under existing laws, the Philippines is supposed to take the bigger chunk in revenues (60-40) from the exploration.
***
The only main issue here is the environmental degradation that can result in the process. I think we can trust Secretary Al on this matter. He is well aware that one of PRRD’s pet peeves is violation of existing environmental laws.
***
The Social Weather Stations (SWS) third quarter survey found 76 percent of 1,500 individuals polled were satisfied with the war on drugs, while only 12 percent were dissatisfied, resulting in a net satisfaction rating of +64. I hope that the human rights critics can read between the lines and stop believing their own propaganda.
***
This news report is most embarrassing. We have received the claims that beauty queens are protesting the sexual abuse in the recent Miss Earth beauty pageant. Three Miss Earth contestants bared sexual harassment on several occasions: candidates Emma Sheedy of Guam, Jaime VandenBerg of Canada and Abbey-Anne Gyles of England.
The three, in their respective Instagram pages, spoke out against a sponsor who they said had inappropriate behavior during the Miss Earth pre-pageant activities. Organizer of Miss Earth 2018 confirmed the removal of the sponsor who allegedly sexually harassed three candidates during the international beauty pageant held here. The sponsor sure tainted the image of the event due to his “earthly” moves.
***
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to “investigate more deeply” into the deaths of nine sugar workers killed in Hacienda Nene in Sagay City, Negros Occidental. True to his promise of making DoJ (Department of Justice) a non-partisan agency, this should be a warning to all that no one is privileged to undermine the law.
Critics worried about the killings in our country? Just recently, 12 were killed in California bar shooting. All the victims were killed inside the bar in the suburb of Thousand Oaks, including the officer who had been called to the scene. The gunman was also dead at the scene. The bar was reported to be hosting a college country music night. This occurred after that tragic Pittsburgh synagogue shooting. Where is Amnesty International and that Callamard?
***
Duterte to invite China’s Xi in his home in Davao City. President Xi Jinping could be the second head of state to set foot in Duterte’s house after Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe toured his home in January 2017. I expect Xi to bring a Chinese made “kulambo” while PRRD will offer his favorite Filipino version of congee that we call “goto.”
***
Good work, good deeds and good faith to all.
***
Baguio’s anti-profanity ordinance may be unconstitutional. Swearing solemnly during oath taking ceremonies is now in danger.
***
French composer Francis Lai of “Love Story” fame passed away. Besides writing music for stars like Edith Piaf and Juliette Greco, Lai was perhaps best known for creating the title track to the 1970 box-office hit “Love Story.” Who can forget the duo Ali MacGraw and Ryan O’Neal that starred in this romantic flick? Lai also created the well acclaimed “A Man and A Woman.”
***
The governments of Japan and the Philippines signed this Thursday an P18-billion loan agreement for the maintenance and rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit line 3 (MRT-3). This is the train system I can get excited about — not the forthcoming Train 2 that could be “taxing” on my wallet.
***
The third Telco was finally announced. The Filipinos are welcoming this move to break the mighty duopoly. We have been singing the tune “Who Can I Turn To” for decades for being victims of fast billing and slow service.
The winner Mislatel is a consortium of Davao tycoon Dennis Uy’s companies (Udenna Corp. and Chelsea Logistics Holdings Corp.), local firm Mindanao Islamic Telephone Corp., and China’s own provider, the China Telecommunications Corp. or China Telecom.
I just hope that the three will not emerge like the game “Triopoly.”
***
Singaporean businessman apologizes to DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) official. In an unexpected turn of events, after days of tension at the newly reopened Boracay, Singaporean businessman Peter Tay went to Casa Pilar in Station 3. Tay approached DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporda not to confront him about the new watersports activity policy, but to apologize. I hope that everybody can now breathe clean air in the rehabilitated island. Misunderstandings can pollute the air quickly.
The usual Boracay critics are now spewing toxic fumes against DENR overstepping the boundaries of its power when it issued a warning on authorized water sports that can threaten the environment. DENR said it would only allow sports activities APPROVED BY the HOTELS. So, what are you talking about? Isn’t it that the hotels are under the supervision of the DoT (Department of Tourism) and DILG (the Department of the Interior and Local Government)?
We sure can dampen the spirit in an ugly way. Reports are saying that Boracay visitors are back to their old bad habits of throwing trash and drinking liquor on the beach, while vendors returned to the seaside to sell their wares. They said that thieves have descended on the island again, approaching foreigners and convincing them to have sex before they pick their pockets. I wish there is a jail seen by the public to shame these culprits.
***
In a complaint filed before the Ombudsman last October 31, the employees claimed PhilHealth Acting President Roy Ferrer earned some P604,080 in professional fees from March 2017 to June
2018, while also receiving about P1.55 million in salaries and allowances since 2017. Let us hear the side of Ferrer. If there’s merit to the accusation, it can really be hazardous to our health.
***
Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said one of the joint exploration projects likely to be signed anytime soon is with China state-owned oil company China National Offshore Oil Corp. (CNOOC). Joint exploration is nothing new and is adopted by most countries all over the world. Under existing laws, the Philippines is supposed to take the bigger chunk in revenues (60-40) from the exploration.
***
The only main issue here is the environmental degradation that can result in the process. I think we can trust Secretary Al on this matter. He is well aware that one of PRRD’s pet peeves is violation of existing environmental laws.
***
The Social Weather Stations (SWS) third quarter survey found 76 percent of 1,500 individuals polled were satisfied with the war on drugs, while only 12 percent were dissatisfied, resulting in a net satisfaction rating of +64. I hope that the human rights critics can read between the lines and stop believing their own propaganda.
***
This news report is most embarrassing. We have received the claims that beauty queens are protesting the sexual abuse in the recent Miss Earth beauty pageant. Three Miss Earth contestants bared sexual harassment on several occasions: candidates Emma Sheedy of Guam, Jaime VandenBerg of Canada and Abbey-Anne Gyles of England.
The three, in their respective Instagram pages, spoke out against a sponsor who they said had inappropriate behavior during the Miss Earth pre-pageant activities. Organizer of Miss Earth 2018 confirmed the removal of the sponsor who allegedly sexually harassed three candidates during the international beauty pageant held here. The sponsor sure tainted the image of the event due to his “earthly” moves.
***
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to “investigate more deeply” into the deaths of nine sugar workers killed in Hacienda Nene in Sagay City, Negros Occidental. True to his promise of making DoJ (Department of Justice) a non-partisan agency, this should be a warning to all that no one is privileged to undermine the law.
Critics worried about the killings in our country? Just recently, 12 were killed in California bar shooting. All the victims were killed inside the bar in the suburb of Thousand Oaks, including the officer who had been called to the scene. The gunman was also dead at the scene. The bar was reported to be hosting a college country music night. This occurred after that tragic Pittsburgh synagogue shooting. Where is Amnesty International and that Callamard?
***
Duterte to invite China’s Xi in his home in Davao City. President Xi Jinping could be the second head of state to set foot in Duterte’s house after Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe toured his home in January 2017. I expect Xi to bring a Chinese made “kulambo” while PRRD will offer his favorite Filipino version of congee that we call “goto.”
***
Good work, good deeds and good faith to all.
Saturday, November 10, 2018
‘Di pa nagumpisa, lumobo na! Clark-Calamba train cost nearly doubles to P777B
The Cabinet Cluster of the National Economic and Development Authority’s (NEDA) Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) has approved the 76-percent increase in the cost of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System in a bid to expand the project’s capacity and enhance operational efficiency and safety.
In a statement, the NEDA said the total cost of the NSCR, a project of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Philippine National Railways (PNR), increased to P777.551 billion from P440.881 billion after the body gave the green light to the railway system’s scope revisions.
It attributed the project cost adjustment to its detailed engineering designs, involving a shift to elevated viaducts instead of at-grade structures to improve operational efficiencies and safety, the adoption of standard gauge instead of narrow-gauge to ensure seamless operations of all sections, and increase in the number of trains and change from single to double-tracks for the Malolos-Clark Railway Project (MCRP).
The cost will also cover resettlement activities with the aim to ensure proper housing and welfare support for the estimated 12,901 informal settler families that will be affected.
These will also meet Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) social and environmental safeguards.
The project will bring together the NSCR Phase 1 (Malolos-Tutuban), the PNR South Commuter Railway (Solis-Calamba), and the MCRP that will create a 147-kilometer elevated, double-track and seamless connection from Clark International Airport to Los Banos, Laguna with 36 stations.
The NSCR System will link with existing railway lines –the Light Rail Transit (LRT)-1, LRT-2, and Metro Rail Transit (MRT)-3, as well as the upcoming Metro Manila Subway.
The rail system is expected to be partially operational by 2022 with a daily ridership of 340,000 passengers.
It will be fully operational by 2023 with a daily ridership of 550,000 passengers.
The government will subsidize an average of P5 billion per year to cover capital, operating and renewal costs of the project –an investment that is expected to generate substantial economic activity, create more jobs, increase incomes, and deliver a more comfortable commuting experience.
Meanwhile, the project will be funded through an official development assistance (ODA) loan support from JICA and the ADB. (PNA)
In a statement, the NEDA said the total cost of the NSCR, a project of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Philippine National Railways (PNR), increased to P777.551 billion from P440.881 billion after the body gave the green light to the railway system’s scope revisions.
It attributed the project cost adjustment to its detailed engineering designs, involving a shift to elevated viaducts instead of at-grade structures to improve operational efficiencies and safety, the adoption of standard gauge instead of narrow-gauge to ensure seamless operations of all sections, and increase in the number of trains and change from single to double-tracks for the Malolos-Clark Railway Project (MCRP).
The cost will also cover resettlement activities with the aim to ensure proper housing and welfare support for the estimated 12,901 informal settler families that will be affected.
These will also meet Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) social and environmental safeguards.
The project will bring together the NSCR Phase 1 (Malolos-Tutuban), the PNR South Commuter Railway (Solis-Calamba), and the MCRP that will create a 147-kilometer elevated, double-track and seamless connection from Clark International Airport to Los Banos, Laguna with 36 stations.
The NSCR System will link with existing railway lines –the Light Rail Transit (LRT)-1, LRT-2, and Metro Rail Transit (MRT)-3, as well as the upcoming Metro Manila Subway.
The rail system is expected to be partially operational by 2022 with a daily ridership of 340,000 passengers.
It will be fully operational by 2023 with a daily ridership of 550,000 passengers.
The government will subsidize an average of P5 billion per year to cover capital, operating and renewal costs of the project –an investment that is expected to generate substantial economic activity, create more jobs, increase incomes, and deliver a more comfortable commuting experience.
Meanwhile, the project will be funded through an official development assistance (ODA) loan support from JICA and the ADB. (PNA)
DOTr sees full rehab of MRT-3 in 26 months
The Department of Transportation said it expects to restore the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 to its high-grade infrastructure condition in 26 months after the loan agreement signing for the MRT-3 Rehabilitation Project.
DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said the P18-billion loan agreement between the Philippine and Japanese governments would address the persisting problems of the MRT-3 and improve its systems to deliver a fast, reliable and safe transportation to commuters.
Batan said the MRT-3 sought to maintain its current average capacity of 350,000 commuters daily for the first seven to nine months of the rehabilitation. The capacity is expected to gradually increase beginning in the third quarter of next year.
He added the train operating speed and time between trains were expected to improve.
“Currently, we are running at 30 kilometers per hour, which we will increase to 60 kph. Our current headway is at 7 to 10 minutes and it would be reduced to 3.5 minutes. And currently, 15 train sets are operational during peak hours, we will increase it to 20,” Bayan said.
The Philippine and Japanese governments, through the Department of Finance and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, formally signed Thursday a P18-billion loan agreement for the MRT-3 Rehabilitation Project.
The project will run until 2022, which covers the rehabilitation and maintenance of the system’s electromechanical components, power supply, rail tracks, depot equipment, and overhaul of its 72 18-year old Light Rail Vehicles.
The rehabilitation of the MRT-3 is the third of four railway projects under the Duterte Administration’s “Build Build Build” Program.
The signing of the loan agreement for the North-South Commuter Railway Extension Project is due in the coming weeks. Loan agreements were signed for the Metro Manila Subway Project in March and the establishment of the Philippine Railway Institute in January.
DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said the P18-billion loan agreement between the Philippine and Japanese governments would address the persisting problems of the MRT-3 and improve its systems to deliver a fast, reliable and safe transportation to commuters.
Batan said the MRT-3 sought to maintain its current average capacity of 350,000 commuters daily for the first seven to nine months of the rehabilitation. The capacity is expected to gradually increase beginning in the third quarter of next year.
He added the train operating speed and time between trains were expected to improve.
“Currently, we are running at 30 kilometers per hour, which we will increase to 60 kph. Our current headway is at 7 to 10 minutes and it would be reduced to 3.5 minutes. And currently, 15 train sets are operational during peak hours, we will increase it to 20,” Bayan said.
The Philippine and Japanese governments, through the Department of Finance and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, formally signed Thursday a P18-billion loan agreement for the MRT-3 Rehabilitation Project.
The project will run until 2022, which covers the rehabilitation and maintenance of the system’s electromechanical components, power supply, rail tracks, depot equipment, and overhaul of its 72 18-year old Light Rail Vehicles.
The rehabilitation of the MRT-3 is the third of four railway projects under the Duterte Administration’s “Build Build Build” Program.
The signing of the loan agreement for the North-South Commuter Railway Extension Project is due in the coming weeks. Loan agreements were signed for the Metro Manila Subway Project in March and the establishment of the Philippine Railway Institute in January.
http://manilastandard.net/business/biz-plus/280102/dotr-sees-full-rehab-of-mrt-3-in-26-months.html
Friday, November 9, 2018
DOTr sees MRT-3 improvement by Q3 2019
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) expects an improvement in the operations of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) by the third quarter of next year with the recent signing of the PHP18-billion loan agreement for its rehabilitation, between the Philippines and Japan.
“The PHP18-billion loan agreement between the Philippine and Japanese governments will address the persisting problems of the MRT-3 and improve its systems to deliver a fast, reliable, and safe transportation to commuters,” DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said in a statement on Friday.
“We expect the MRT-3 to be restored to its original condition after 26 months,” Batan added.
The MRT-3 seeks to maintain its current average capacity of 350,000 commuters daily for the first seven to nine months of the rehabilitation.
Capacity is expected to gradually increase beginning the third quarter of next year, he said.
Batan projected that the speed of the MRT trains would improve from 30 km. per hour (kph) to 60 kph with its headway time reduced from the current seven minutes to 3.5 minutes.
“Our trains, which at times get stalled, are currently at 15 train sets during peak hours. We aim to increase these to 20,” he said.
The Department of Finance (DOF) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed on Wednesday the 38 billion Japanese yen or PHP18 billion loan agreement for the MRT-3 rehabilitation project.
The project includes the repair and maintenance of the system’s electromechanical components, power supply, rail tracks, and depot equipment, and overhaul of its 72 light rail vehicles.
The upgrade of the MRT-3 will take about 43 months, with the first 26 months focused on the rehabilitation of the entire system. (PNA)
“The PHP18-billion loan agreement between the Philippine and Japanese governments will address the persisting problems of the MRT-3 and improve its systems to deliver a fast, reliable, and safe transportation to commuters,” DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said in a statement on Friday.
“We expect the MRT-3 to be restored to its original condition after 26 months,” Batan added.
The MRT-3 seeks to maintain its current average capacity of 350,000 commuters daily for the first seven to nine months of the rehabilitation.
Capacity is expected to gradually increase beginning the third quarter of next year, he said.
Batan projected that the speed of the MRT trains would improve from 30 km. per hour (kph) to 60 kph with its headway time reduced from the current seven minutes to 3.5 minutes.
“Our trains, which at times get stalled, are currently at 15 train sets during peak hours. We aim to increase these to 20,” he said.
The Department of Finance (DOF) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed on Wednesday the 38 billion Japanese yen or PHP18 billion loan agreement for the MRT-3 rehabilitation project.
The project includes the repair and maintenance of the system’s electromechanical components, power supply, rail tracks, and depot equipment, and overhaul of its 72 light rail vehicles.
The upgrade of the MRT-3 will take about 43 months, with the first 26 months focused on the rehabilitation of the entire system. (PNA)
Japan, ADB to finance 147-km train systems between Clark and Calamba
The economic team has consolidated three big-ticket railway projects into one massive P777.6-billion project stretching from the Clark Freeport Zone up north to Calamba, Laguna down south.
The North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System, approved by the interagency Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee (ICC Cab-Com) last Tuesday, raised the total project cost from the previous P440.9 billion, to be co-financed by loans from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) and the Manila-based multilateral lender Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Finance Assistant Secretary Maria Edita Z. Tan told the Inquirer last Thursday that Jica will finance the actual construction, while the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will cover civil works.
“The increase in project cost is attributed to three factors as determined by the detailed engineering designs: shift to elevated viaducts instead of at-grade structures to improve operational efficiencies and safety; adoption of standard gauge instead of narrow-gauge, in compliance with government standards to ensure seamless operations for all sections; and increase in the number of trains and change from single to double-tracks for the Malolos-Clark Railway Project,” the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) said in a statement Friday.
“The cost will also cover resettlement activities, meeting ADB and JICA social and environmental safeguards, to ensure proper housing and welfare support for the estimated 12,901 informal settler families that will be affected,” the state planning agency added.
The NSCR, to be implemented by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Philippine National Railways (PNR), will connect the ongoing Phase 1 between Malolos, Bulacan and Tutuban, Manila to the PNR South Commuter Railway to Calamba as well as the Malolos-Clark Railway.
The three railway systems running a total of 147 kilometers will have 36 stations, to be connected to the Light Rail Transit 1, LRT 2, Metro Rail Transit 3, and the soon-to-rise Metro Manila Subway.
Based on earlier Neda documents, it will also pass through Clark International Airport.
“The NSCR System compared to other railway projects in Asia is more cost-effective. Per kilometer, the project costs about $100 million,” Neda quoted the DOTr as saying.
Partial operations will begin in 2022 with 340,000 passengers expected to use the system per day. Full operations will start in 2023, with a higher projected daily ridership of 550,000.
“The government will subsidize an average of P5 billion per year to cover capital, operating, and renewal costs of the project—an investment that is expected to generate substantial economic activity, create more jobs, increase incomes, and deliver a more comfortable commuting experience,” according to Neda.
Based on earlier Neda documents, the Malolos-Clark and Tutuban-Calamba segments were currently undergoing detailed engineering design as well as supplemental feasibility studies by Jica.
The design and feasibility study would be completed by March or April next year.
According to an earlier ADB timetable, its counterpart financing for the north line to Clark Green City will be up for approval next year, while that for the south commuter line is expected to be approved in 2020. /kga
https://business.inquirer.net/260258/japan-adb-to-finance-147-km-train-systems-between-clark-and-calamba
The North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System, approved by the interagency Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee (ICC Cab-Com) last Tuesday, raised the total project cost from the previous P440.9 billion, to be co-financed by loans from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) and the Manila-based multilateral lender Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Finance Assistant Secretary Maria Edita Z. Tan told the Inquirer last Thursday that Jica will finance the actual construction, while the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will cover civil works.
“The increase in project cost is attributed to three factors as determined by the detailed engineering designs: shift to elevated viaducts instead of at-grade structures to improve operational efficiencies and safety; adoption of standard gauge instead of narrow-gauge, in compliance with government standards to ensure seamless operations for all sections; and increase in the number of trains and change from single to double-tracks for the Malolos-Clark Railway Project,” the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) said in a statement Friday.
“The cost will also cover resettlement activities, meeting ADB and JICA social and environmental safeguards, to ensure proper housing and welfare support for the estimated 12,901 informal settler families that will be affected,” the state planning agency added.
The NSCR, to be implemented by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Philippine National Railways (PNR), will connect the ongoing Phase 1 between Malolos, Bulacan and Tutuban, Manila to the PNR South Commuter Railway to Calamba as well as the Malolos-Clark Railway.
The three railway systems running a total of 147 kilometers will have 36 stations, to be connected to the Light Rail Transit 1, LRT 2, Metro Rail Transit 3, and the soon-to-rise Metro Manila Subway.
Based on earlier Neda documents, it will also pass through Clark International Airport.
“The NSCR System compared to other railway projects in Asia is more cost-effective. Per kilometer, the project costs about $100 million,” Neda quoted the DOTr as saying.
Partial operations will begin in 2022 with 340,000 passengers expected to use the system per day. Full operations will start in 2023, with a higher projected daily ridership of 550,000.
“The government will subsidize an average of P5 billion per year to cover capital, operating, and renewal costs of the project—an investment that is expected to generate substantial economic activity, create more jobs, increase incomes, and deliver a more comfortable commuting experience,” according to Neda.
Based on earlier Neda documents, the Malolos-Clark and Tutuban-Calamba segments were currently undergoing detailed engineering design as well as supplemental feasibility studies by Jica.
The design and feasibility study would be completed by March or April next year.
According to an earlier ADB timetable, its counterpart financing for the north line to Clark Green City will be up for approval next year, while that for the south commuter line is expected to be approved in 2020. /kga
https://business.inquirer.net/260258/japan-adb-to-finance-147-km-train-systems-between-clark-and-calamba
ICC Approves Change in Scope and Cost of North-South Commuter Railway System
The Investment Coordination Committee – Cabinet Committee approved on November 6 the change in scope and increase in cost of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System.
The total cost of the NSCR, a project of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Philippine National Railways (PNR), increased to PhP 777,551.07 million from PhP 440,881.05. It will be funded through an Official Development Assistance loan support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The increase in project cost is attributed to three factors as determined by the detailed engineering designs: a) shift to elevated viaducts instead of at-grade structures to improve operational efficiencies and safety; (b) adoption of standard gauge instead of narrow-gauge, in compliance with government standards to ensure seamless operations for all sections; and, c) increase in the number of trains and change from single to double-tracks for the MCRP.
The cost will also cover resettlement activities, meeting ADB and JICA social and environmental safeguards, to ensure proper housing and welfare support for the estimated 12,901 informal settler families that will be affected.
The project will bring together the NSCR Phase 1 (Malolos-Tutuban), the PNR South Commuter Railway (Solis-Calamba), and the Malolos-Clark Railway Project (MCRP), that will create a 147-km elevated, double-track, and seamless connection from Clark International Airport to Los Banos, Laguna, with 36 stations.
The NSCR System will link with existing railway lines the LRT-1, LRT-2 and MRT-3, as well as with the upcoming LRT-4, LRT-6, MRT-7 and Metro Manila Subway.
According to the DOTr, the NSCR System compared to other railway projects in Asia is more cost-effective. Per kilometer, the project costs about USD100 million.
The rail system is expected to be partially operational by 2022 with a daily ridership of 340,000 passengers. It will be fully operational by 2023 with a daily ridership of 550,000 passengers.
The government will subsidize an average of PhP5 billion per year to cover capital, operating, and renewal costs of the project—an investment that is expected to generate substantial economic activity, create more jobs, increase incomes, and deliver a more comfortable commuting experience.
The DOTr was instructed by the Committee to implement measures that would allow the national government to maximize non-farebox revenues, such as incremental taxes from increased property value through revenue-sharing arrangements with concerned LGUs and through the development of national government properties in the project area.
The total cost of the NSCR, a project of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Philippine National Railways (PNR), increased to PhP 777,551.07 million from PhP 440,881.05. It will be funded through an Official Development Assistance loan support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The increase in project cost is attributed to three factors as determined by the detailed engineering designs: a) shift to elevated viaducts instead of at-grade structures to improve operational efficiencies and safety; (b) adoption of standard gauge instead of narrow-gauge, in compliance with government standards to ensure seamless operations for all sections; and, c) increase in the number of trains and change from single to double-tracks for the MCRP.
The cost will also cover resettlement activities, meeting ADB and JICA social and environmental safeguards, to ensure proper housing and welfare support for the estimated 12,901 informal settler families that will be affected.
The project will bring together the NSCR Phase 1 (Malolos-Tutuban), the PNR South Commuter Railway (Solis-Calamba), and the Malolos-Clark Railway Project (MCRP), that will create a 147-km elevated, double-track, and seamless connection from Clark International Airport to Los Banos, Laguna, with 36 stations.
The NSCR System will link with existing railway lines the LRT-1, LRT-2 and MRT-3, as well as with the upcoming LRT-4, LRT-6, MRT-7 and Metro Manila Subway.
According to the DOTr, the NSCR System compared to other railway projects in Asia is more cost-effective. Per kilometer, the project costs about USD100 million.
The rail system is expected to be partially operational by 2022 with a daily ridership of 340,000 passengers. It will be fully operational by 2023 with a daily ridership of 550,000 passengers.
The government will subsidize an average of PhP5 billion per year to cover capital, operating, and renewal costs of the project—an investment that is expected to generate substantial economic activity, create more jobs, increase incomes, and deliver a more comfortable commuting experience.
The DOTr was instructed by the Committee to implement measures that would allow the national government to maximize non-farebox revenues, such as incremental taxes from increased property value through revenue-sharing arrangements with concerned LGUs and through the development of national government properties in the project area.
PHL, Japan sign MRT-3 rehab loan agreement
THE PHILIPPINES and Japan on Thursday signed a 38-billion yen loan agreement to upgrade and rehabilitate the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).
Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III signed the loan agreement on behalf of the Philippines, while Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) senior vice-president Yasushi Tanaka signed on behalf of Japan.
The project seeks to improve the safety, reliability and the level of service of the 16.9-kilometer light rail system connecting 13 stations along EDSA — Metro Manila’s main artery.
The MRT-3 rehabilitation project will cost a total of P21.96 billion. Japan will provide a loan covering about 85% or P18.76 billion via its Official Development Assistance (ODA) agency, JICA. The remaining P3.19 billion will be funded by the Philippines.
The interest rate is 0.10% for non-consulting services and 0.01% for consulting services, with a maturity period of 40 years inclusive of a 12-year grace period.
“This is by every measure a very soft loan that will enable us to address a very pressing problem,” Mr. Dominguez said in his speech.
“This is good news for the Filipino commuters so they will have improved access to safe and reliable transportation, while also meeting the Philippine government’s priorities to reduce traffic congestion in Metro Manila, attract investments, and improve the quality of life of the people,” said JICA Senior Vice-President Yasushi Tanaka.
The project involves the replacement of “worn-out” tracks, a “general overhaul” of the 15-year old 72 light rail vehicles, that seeks to eliminate the problems of train stoppages, system failures, engine breakdowns and faulty air conditioning besetting the line.
The loan will also cover the rail line’s train cars, power supply system, overhead catenary system, radio system, closed-circuit television system, public address system, depot equipment, elevators and escalators and other station-building equipment.
Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John R. Batan said that the rehabilitation process will not disrupt the current capacity of the MRT-3.
He said that the DoTr will return the MRT to its normal design capacity in the next 26 months, to 20 operating transits from the current 15, and time intervals of three and a half minutes between trains from seven minutes currently, speeds of 60 kilometers per hour (kph) from 30 kph, and passengers carried to 500,000 from 388,000 currently.
He said that the DoTr will gradually increase the MRT’s capacity further until the 43rd month.
Mr. Batan said that the government will tap the services of Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the original maintenance provider of MRT-3 when it was first rolled out, before its contract was terminated in 2012.
He said that Sumitomo began the rehabilitation process on Oct. 15 to help accelerate the project.
Mr. Batan also said that the DoTr is still proceeding with the full integration of all the trains bought from Chinese firm CRRC Dalian Co.
“The transition process is already ongoing and full mobilization will be in January. The mobilization is already happening. The interface with Dalian trains is something that we are currently discussing in order to make sure that all the considerations have been addressed.
Mr. Dominguez said that the MRT rehabilitation was the fastest that was ever processed between both countries, taking less than three months.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board, chaired by President Rodrigo R. Duterte, approved the rehabilitation project on Aug. 22
“I would like to assure our harried commuters that we will rebuild and reinvent this vital rail service as quickly as possible,” Mr. Dominguez said. — Elijah Joseph C. Tubayan
https://www.bworldonline.com/phl-japan-sign-mrt-3-rehab-loan-agreement/
Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III signed the loan agreement on behalf of the Philippines, while Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) senior vice-president Yasushi Tanaka signed on behalf of Japan.
The project seeks to improve the safety, reliability and the level of service of the 16.9-kilometer light rail system connecting 13 stations along EDSA — Metro Manila’s main artery.
The MRT-3 rehabilitation project will cost a total of P21.96 billion. Japan will provide a loan covering about 85% or P18.76 billion via its Official Development Assistance (ODA) agency, JICA. The remaining P3.19 billion will be funded by the Philippines.
The interest rate is 0.10% for non-consulting services and 0.01% for consulting services, with a maturity period of 40 years inclusive of a 12-year grace period.
“This is by every measure a very soft loan that will enable us to address a very pressing problem,” Mr. Dominguez said in his speech.
“This is good news for the Filipino commuters so they will have improved access to safe and reliable transportation, while also meeting the Philippine government’s priorities to reduce traffic congestion in Metro Manila, attract investments, and improve the quality of life of the people,” said JICA Senior Vice-President Yasushi Tanaka.
The project involves the replacement of “worn-out” tracks, a “general overhaul” of the 15-year old 72 light rail vehicles, that seeks to eliminate the problems of train stoppages, system failures, engine breakdowns and faulty air conditioning besetting the line.
The loan will also cover the rail line’s train cars, power supply system, overhead catenary system, radio system, closed-circuit television system, public address system, depot equipment, elevators and escalators and other station-building equipment.
Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John R. Batan said that the rehabilitation process will not disrupt the current capacity of the MRT-3.
He said that the DoTr will return the MRT to its normal design capacity in the next 26 months, to 20 operating transits from the current 15, and time intervals of three and a half minutes between trains from seven minutes currently, speeds of 60 kilometers per hour (kph) from 30 kph, and passengers carried to 500,000 from 388,000 currently.
He said that the DoTr will gradually increase the MRT’s capacity further until the 43rd month.
Mr. Batan said that the government will tap the services of Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), the original maintenance provider of MRT-3 when it was first rolled out, before its contract was terminated in 2012.
He said that Sumitomo began the rehabilitation process on Oct. 15 to help accelerate the project.
Mr. Batan also said that the DoTr is still proceeding with the full integration of all the trains bought from Chinese firm CRRC Dalian Co.
“The transition process is already ongoing and full mobilization will be in January. The mobilization is already happening. The interface with Dalian trains is something that we are currently discussing in order to make sure that all the considerations have been addressed.
Mr. Dominguez said that the MRT rehabilitation was the fastest that was ever processed between both countries, taking less than three months.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board, chaired by President Rodrigo R. Duterte, approved the rehabilitation project on Aug. 22
“I would like to assure our harried commuters that we will rebuild and reinvent this vital rail service as quickly as possible,” Mr. Dominguez said. — Elijah Joseph C. Tubayan
https://www.bworldonline.com/phl-japan-sign-mrt-3-rehab-loan-agreement/
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
PH, Japan finalize details of P18-billion MRT3 rehab loan
(UPDATED) – The governments of the Philippines and Japan finally exchanged notes on the long-delayed loan agreement for the rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3).
An exchange of notes means the details of the project and financing arrangement have been ironed out. It comes before the actual signing of agreements.
On Wednesday, November 7, Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda exchanged notes on the MRT3 rehabilitation loan deal at the Department of Foreign Affairs, witnessed by Railways Undersecretary Timothy John Batan.
"We all know that a safe and eco-friendly transport system is crucial to the Greater Manila Area and to the Philippines as a whole to realize sustainable economic growth and comfortable life for Filipinos. This is precisely where Japanese technology and expertise from years of railway experience come in," Haneda said in his speech.
The signing of the loan agreement will be done on Thursday, November 8, at the Department of Finance.
Ahead of the loan deal signing, Japan's Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) already returned as maintenance provider in October. Sumitomo-MHI is the original builder of the MRT3 railway system and maintained it until 2012.
Back in August, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee (ICC-CabCom) approved the P22.06-billion MRT3 rehabilitation project.
It is 80% funded by the Japanese loan, while the remaining amount will be shouldered by the Philippine government. The project is expected to be completed by the 1st quarter of 2021.
Helicopter parts
The two governments also signed notes on Japan's donation of "no longer needed" UH-1H helicopter parts and maintenance equipment to the Philippine Air Force.
This was done on the basis of the Philippine government's request, to enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Air Force to carry out humanitarian activities.
"The project we signed today will mean closer partnership between our defense [agencies]. I hope we can identify and implement projects beneficial for us in the future," Haneda said.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana witnessed the signing.
An exchange of notes means the details of the project and financing arrangement have been ironed out. It comes before the actual signing of agreements.
On Wednesday, November 7, Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda exchanged notes on the MRT3 rehabilitation loan deal at the Department of Foreign Affairs, witnessed by Railways Undersecretary Timothy John Batan.
"We all know that a safe and eco-friendly transport system is crucial to the Greater Manila Area and to the Philippines as a whole to realize sustainable economic growth and comfortable life for Filipinos. This is precisely where Japanese technology and expertise from years of railway experience come in," Haneda said in his speech.
The signing of the loan agreement will be done on Thursday, November 8, at the Department of Finance.
Ahead of the loan deal signing, Japan's Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) already returned as maintenance provider in October. Sumitomo-MHI is the original builder of the MRT3 railway system and maintained it until 2012.
Back in August, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee (ICC-CabCom) approved the P22.06-billion MRT3 rehabilitation project.
It is 80% funded by the Japanese loan, while the remaining amount will be shouldered by the Philippine government. The project is expected to be completed by the 1st quarter of 2021.
Helicopter parts
The two governments also signed notes on Japan's donation of "no longer needed" UH-1H helicopter parts and maintenance equipment to the Philippine Air Force.
This was done on the basis of the Philippine government's request, to enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Air Force to carry out humanitarian activities.
"The project we signed today will mean closer partnership between our defense [agencies]. I hope we can identify and implement projects beneficial for us in the future," Haneda said.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana witnessed the signing.
PHL, Japan exchange notes for MRT3 rehab
The governments of the Philippines and Japan on Wednesday exchanged notes for the rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3.
The Philippine government was represented by Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., while the Japanese government was represented by Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Koji Haneda.
Locsin and Haneda exchanged notes on the MRT3 rehabilitation loan deal at the Department of Foreign Affairs main office in Pasay City.
The exchange of notes was witnessed by Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan.
Under the Exchange of Notes, Japanese company Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will return as the firm in charge of the maintenance and rehabilitation of the MRT3.
Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy, as the original MRT3 maintenance contractor, has designed and built the line, as well as maintained it in its first 12 years.
The exchange of notes will be followed by the signing of a loan agreement on Thursday, November 8. — MDM, GMA News
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/673876/phl-japan-exchange-notes-for-mrt3-rehab/story/
The Philippine government was represented by Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., while the Japanese government was represented by Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Koji Haneda.
Locsin and Haneda exchanged notes on the MRT3 rehabilitation loan deal at the Department of Foreign Affairs main office in Pasay City.
The exchange of notes was witnessed by Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan.
Under the Exchange of Notes, Japanese company Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will return as the firm in charge of the maintenance and rehabilitation of the MRT3.
Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy, as the original MRT3 maintenance contractor, has designed and built the line, as well as maintained it in its first 12 years.
The exchange of notes will be followed by the signing of a loan agreement on Thursday, November 8. — MDM, GMA News
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/673876/phl-japan-exchange-notes-for-mrt3-rehab/story/
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
De Lima slammed for 'misleading' views on infra projects
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) slammed detained Senator Leila De Lima for her "misleading" views that the two key projects under the "Build, Build, Build" program of the Duterte administration would displace hundreds of thousands of informal settler families in Metro Manila.
“The Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Works and Highways strongly urge Senator Leila de Lima to get her facts straight, on the heels of her call for the Senate to investigate two Build, Build, Build projects which she claims will displace over 180,000 families in Metro Manila,” the DOTr and DPWH said on their joint statement on Tuesday.
This, as De Lima has asked the Senate to conduct a probe into the construction of the North Luzon-South Luzon Expressway (NLEX-SLEX) Connector Road and the North South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Project claiming this could displace over 180,000 families in Metro Manila.
Both the departments explained that the number of informal settler families affected by the NSCR Project is at 94,132 across the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON and Bicol.
The NSCR Project consists of the following segments: PNR Clark 1 (38-km, Tutuban-Malolos), PNR Clark 2 (51-km, Malolos-Clark), PNR Calamba (56-km, Manila-Calamba), and PNR Bicol (653-km, Manila-Matnog; Batangas).
“Contrary to the Senator's figures, the estimated number of likely affected ISFs (informal settler families) is 344 for PNR Clark 1; 1,173 for PNR Clark 2; 11,384 for PNR Calamba; and 1,700 for the NLEX-SLEX Connector Project. For PNR Bicol, the previous estimate of 79,531 ISFs will be greatly reduced because of the DOTr and PNR's approach of exploring re-alignments to avoid displacement of persons, to minimize conflict with road traffic and structures, and to straighten curves to achieve faster operating speeds,” the statement read.
“Even assuming the number of affected ISFs for PNR Bicol is not reduced (which it will), the total number of affected ISFs at 94,132 across four regions is far apart from the good Senator's erroneous estimation, which unnecessarily misleads the public on the true scale of the projects’ impact,” it added.
The DOTr and DPWH likewise noted that the acquisition of the right of way for the NLEX-SLEX Connector and the NSCR are in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act 10752 or the Right of Way Act and Republic Act 7279 or the Urban and Housing Development Act.
Public consultation meetings, they argued, had also been conducted by the local interagency committees in various affected areas.
Furthermore, all four phases of the NSCR Project are separately funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and China.
“Borrower countries such as the Philippines are required to ensure compliance not just with all applicable local laws and regulations on land acquisition and resettlement, but also with the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement and JICA's Guidelines for Social Considerations. This means that part of project preparation and implementation is a comprehensive evaluation of the project’s potential social impact, and the implementation of measures that will ensure that affected persons are left "no worse off," as required under ADB and JICA Social Safeguards,” according to the DOTr and DPWH.
Both departments stressed that the implementation of these projects are necessary to facilitate ease of movement among commuters and boost economic growth in the region.
“It bears repeating that these projects are long overdue, and are ultimately meant to alleviate the decades-long suffering of thousands of Filipino commuters in Luzon. Moreover, these projects are poised to economically transform the regions, ferrying in commerce, and increasing incomes faster than before. The DOTr and the DPWH, under the Duterte Administration, remain steadfast in its goal of giving a better life for all Filipinos, and will not be diverted by criticisms anchored on false and misleading data,” the DOTr and DPWH said.
De Lima has filed Senate Resolution No. 927 which urged the appropriate Senate committee to look into the impending demolition of thousands of residents’ homes in 38 communities in Manila affected by the construction of the PHP23 billion NLEX-SLEX Connector Road and the PHP171 billion NSCR Project which are scheduled to be rolled out next year.
According to the senator, these two construction projects will result in the massive demolition of houses in at least 38 barangays in Manila composed mainly of homes and small businesses. (PNA)
“The Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Works and Highways strongly urge Senator Leila de Lima to get her facts straight, on the heels of her call for the Senate to investigate two Build, Build, Build projects which she claims will displace over 180,000 families in Metro Manila,” the DOTr and DPWH said on their joint statement on Tuesday.
This, as De Lima has asked the Senate to conduct a probe into the construction of the North Luzon-South Luzon Expressway (NLEX-SLEX) Connector Road and the North South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Project claiming this could displace over 180,000 families in Metro Manila.
Both the departments explained that the number of informal settler families affected by the NSCR Project is at 94,132 across the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON and Bicol.
The NSCR Project consists of the following segments: PNR Clark 1 (38-km, Tutuban-Malolos), PNR Clark 2 (51-km, Malolos-Clark), PNR Calamba (56-km, Manila-Calamba), and PNR Bicol (653-km, Manila-Matnog; Batangas).
“Contrary to the Senator's figures, the estimated number of likely affected ISFs (informal settler families) is 344 for PNR Clark 1; 1,173 for PNR Clark 2; 11,384 for PNR Calamba; and 1,700 for the NLEX-SLEX Connector Project. For PNR Bicol, the previous estimate of 79,531 ISFs will be greatly reduced because of the DOTr and PNR's approach of exploring re-alignments to avoid displacement of persons, to minimize conflict with road traffic and structures, and to straighten curves to achieve faster operating speeds,” the statement read.
“Even assuming the number of affected ISFs for PNR Bicol is not reduced (which it will), the total number of affected ISFs at 94,132 across four regions is far apart from the good Senator's erroneous estimation, which unnecessarily misleads the public on the true scale of the projects’ impact,” it added.
The DOTr and DPWH likewise noted that the acquisition of the right of way for the NLEX-SLEX Connector and the NSCR are in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act 10752 or the Right of Way Act and Republic Act 7279 or the Urban and Housing Development Act.
Public consultation meetings, they argued, had also been conducted by the local interagency committees in various affected areas.
Furthermore, all four phases of the NSCR Project are separately funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and China.
“Borrower countries such as the Philippines are required to ensure compliance not just with all applicable local laws and regulations on land acquisition and resettlement, but also with the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement and JICA's Guidelines for Social Considerations. This means that part of project preparation and implementation is a comprehensive evaluation of the project’s potential social impact, and the implementation of measures that will ensure that affected persons are left "no worse off," as required under ADB and JICA Social Safeguards,” according to the DOTr and DPWH.
Both departments stressed that the implementation of these projects are necessary to facilitate ease of movement among commuters and boost economic growth in the region.
“It bears repeating that these projects are long overdue, and are ultimately meant to alleviate the decades-long suffering of thousands of Filipino commuters in Luzon. Moreover, these projects are poised to economically transform the regions, ferrying in commerce, and increasing incomes faster than before. The DOTr and the DPWH, under the Duterte Administration, remain steadfast in its goal of giving a better life for all Filipinos, and will not be diverted by criticisms anchored on false and misleading data,” the DOTr and DPWH said.
De Lima has filed Senate Resolution No. 927 which urged the appropriate Senate committee to look into the impending demolition of thousands of residents’ homes in 38 communities in Manila affected by the construction of the PHP23 billion NLEX-SLEX Connector Road and the PHP171 billion NSCR Project which are scheduled to be rolled out next year.
According to the senator, these two construction projects will result in the massive demolition of houses in at least 38 barangays in Manila composed mainly of homes and small businesses. (PNA)
De Lima criticisms ‘inaccurate, misleading’ – DOTr, DPWH
Two government agencies urged Sen Leila De Lima on Tuesday to “get her facts straight” after her remarks on the administration’s “Build Build Build” program.
Filing a Senate Resolution No. 927, De Lima called for a Senate probe on the Build Build Build project, citing that the construction of the P23 billion North Luzon Expressway—South Luzon Expressway (NLEX-SLEX) Connector Road Project and the P171 billion North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Project would displace 180,000 families in Metro Manila.
“Some residents of Sampaloc, Manila, have long been apprehensive of their forcible eviction and relocation to give way for the construction of these projects. They have repeatedly stressed that the concerned agencies have failed to adequately consult with them concerning the right-of-way negotiations,” she added.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Public Ways and Highways (DPWH) said that the statement of the detained senator was “inaccurate and misleading”
The DOTr noted that the NSCR general project that De Lima cited consist of four different projects, namely PNR Clark 1, PNR Clark 2, PNR Los Banos, and PNR Bicol.
Despite the huge scope of the NSCR project, the department said that this would not affect the 38 barangays in Manila, contrary to the claim of De Lima.
It also said that the four phases of the NSCR Project are separately financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and China, “a fact conveniently missed by the good Senator.”
“The DOTr and DPWH stress that contrary to what the good Senator may have intentionally or unintentionally misstated, the Informal Settler Families (ISF) affected by the NSCR Projects are not confined to 38 Barangays in Manila, but are rather spread across Region III (Central Luzon), National Capital Region, Region IV-A (CALABARZON), and Region V (Bicol),” the two agencies said in a joint statement.
“It is also stressed that contrary to the Senator’s figures, the estimated number of likely affected ISFs is 344 for PNR Clark 1; 1,173 for PNR Clark 2; 11,384 for PNR Los Banos; and 1,700 for the NLEX-SLEX Connector Project. For PNR Bicol, the previous estimate of 79,531 ISFs will be greatly reduced because of the DOTr and PNR’s approach of exploring re-alignments to avoid displacement of persons, to minimize conflict with road traffic and structures, and to straighten curves to achieve faster operating speeds.” it added.
Both the DPWH and the DOTr also said that the acquisition of the right of way for the NLEX-SLEX Connector Road and NSCR project are guided by the provisions of the Right of Way Act (RA 10752) and the Urban Development Housing Act (RA 7279)
The two departments then vowed that the projects of the administration would provide “better life” to the public once finished.
“The DOTr and the DPWH, under the Duterte Administration, remain steadfast in its goal of giving a better life for all Filipinos, and will not be diverted by criticisms anchored on false and misleading data,” it said. /cbb
Filing a Senate Resolution No. 927, De Lima called for a Senate probe on the Build Build Build project, citing that the construction of the P23 billion North Luzon Expressway—South Luzon Expressway (NLEX-SLEX) Connector Road Project and the P171 billion North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Project would displace 180,000 families in Metro Manila.
“Some residents of Sampaloc, Manila, have long been apprehensive of their forcible eviction and relocation to give way for the construction of these projects. They have repeatedly stressed that the concerned agencies have failed to adequately consult with them concerning the right-of-way negotiations,” she added.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Public Ways and Highways (DPWH) said that the statement of the detained senator was “inaccurate and misleading”
The DOTr noted that the NSCR general project that De Lima cited consist of four different projects, namely PNR Clark 1, PNR Clark 2, PNR Los Banos, and PNR Bicol.
Despite the huge scope of the NSCR project, the department said that this would not affect the 38 barangays in Manila, contrary to the claim of De Lima.
It also said that the four phases of the NSCR Project are separately financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and China, “a fact conveniently missed by the good Senator.”
“The DOTr and DPWH stress that contrary to what the good Senator may have intentionally or unintentionally misstated, the Informal Settler Families (ISF) affected by the NSCR Projects are not confined to 38 Barangays in Manila, but are rather spread across Region III (Central Luzon), National Capital Region, Region IV-A (CALABARZON), and Region V (Bicol),” the two agencies said in a joint statement.
“It is also stressed that contrary to the Senator’s figures, the estimated number of likely affected ISFs is 344 for PNR Clark 1; 1,173 for PNR Clark 2; 11,384 for PNR Los Banos; and 1,700 for the NLEX-SLEX Connector Project. For PNR Bicol, the previous estimate of 79,531 ISFs will be greatly reduced because of the DOTr and PNR’s approach of exploring re-alignments to avoid displacement of persons, to minimize conflict with road traffic and structures, and to straighten curves to achieve faster operating speeds.” it added.
Both the DPWH and the DOTr also said that the acquisition of the right of way for the NLEX-SLEX Connector Road and NSCR project are guided by the provisions of the Right of Way Act (RA 10752) and the Urban Development Housing Act (RA 7279)
The two departments then vowed that the projects of the administration would provide “better life” to the public once finished.
“The DOTr and the DPWH, under the Duterte Administration, remain steadfast in its goal of giving a better life for all Filipinos, and will not be diverted by criticisms anchored on false and misleading data,” it said. /cbb
IN THE KNOW: NLEx-SLEx connector road, North-South Commuter Railway
The North Luzon Expressway (NLEx)-South Luzon Expressway (SLEx) connector road project is an 8-kilometer elevated expressway that will cut travel time between NLEx to SLEx from over two hours to 15-20 minutes.
The P23.3-billion connector road will run from the terminal of Segment 10 on C-3 Road in Caloocan City up to SLEx, mostly passing through the Philippine National Railways tracks.
Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Metro Pacific Investments Corp., through Manila North Tollways Corp., signed a 37-year contract in November 2016 to finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the road project, which is set to start construction in May 2019.
Some 3,500 informal settlers in 38 barangays and 1,043 privately owned lots with a total land area of 8.7 hectares would be affected by the project, the city government of Manila said in November last year.
Detained Sen. Leila de Lima said in a statement last week that about 180,000 families would be displaced in the demolition of houses and shops to give way to the NLEx-SLEx connector road project and the P171-billion North-South Commuter Railway Project.
North-South Commuter Railway Project
The 653-km south line of the North-South Railway Project is poised to be the biggest public-private partnership project to date.
It will run from Manila to Legazpi City in Albay province.
It will consist of commuter railway operations between Tutuban in Manila and Calamba, Laguna, as well as long-haul railway operations between Tutuban and Legazpi City.
The project, among the public-private partnership deals left hanging by the previous administration, is being reviewed by the Department of Transportation, according to the Public-Private Partnership Center website.
Five Filipino conglomerates acquired bid documents in February 2016 to operate, maintain and upgrade the line over a period of 34 years.
The line is expected to service 316,000 passengers a day in its opening year and is projected to entice around 44,000 public and private vehicle users to shift their commutes to the modernized railway.
Sources: Inquirer Archives, dpwh.gov.ph
The P23.3-billion connector road will run from the terminal of Segment 10 on C-3 Road in Caloocan City up to SLEx, mostly passing through the Philippine National Railways tracks.
Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Metro Pacific Investments Corp., through Manila North Tollways Corp., signed a 37-year contract in November 2016 to finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the road project, which is set to start construction in May 2019.
Some 3,500 informal settlers in 38 barangays and 1,043 privately owned lots with a total land area of 8.7 hectares would be affected by the project, the city government of Manila said in November last year.
Detained Sen. Leila de Lima said in a statement last week that about 180,000 families would be displaced in the demolition of houses and shops to give way to the NLEx-SLEx connector road project and the P171-billion North-South Commuter Railway Project.
North-South Commuter Railway Project
The 653-km south line of the North-South Railway Project is poised to be the biggest public-private partnership project to date.
It will run from Manila to Legazpi City in Albay province.
It will consist of commuter railway operations between Tutuban in Manila and Calamba, Laguna, as well as long-haul railway operations between Tutuban and Legazpi City.
The project, among the public-private partnership deals left hanging by the previous administration, is being reviewed by the Department of Transportation, according to the Public-Private Partnership Center website.
Five Filipino conglomerates acquired bid documents in February 2016 to operate, maintain and upgrade the line over a period of 34 years.
The line is expected to service 316,000 passengers a day in its opening year and is projected to entice around 44,000 public and private vehicle users to shift their commutes to the modernized railway.
Sources: Inquirer Archives, dpwh.gov.ph
Friday, November 2, 2018
Expect ‘brand new’ MRT3 after Japan-funded rehab, says DOTr exec
Commuters can expect better services and facilities once the Japanese loan-funded rehabilitation of the glitch-plagued Metro Rail Transit Line 3 is finished, a top official of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Friday.
"Kapag natapos ang rehab na ito parang meron tayong brand new MRT3," Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said in an interview on GMA News TV's News to Go.
Batan earlier said the governments of the Philippines and Japan are set to sign the P18-billion loan agreement for the rehabilitation and maintenance of MRT3 on November 7.
The loan agreement will pave the way for the return of Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries—the designer and builder of the railway system—as the maintenance contractor of the MRT3.
The rehabilitation will cover the trains, the radio system, the CCTV system, the signaling system, the power supply system, and the public address system.
The contractor is also expected to fix the rail tracks, road rail vehicles, depot equipment, elevators and escalators, and other station-building equipment.
"'Yung scope of work ng JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) rehab ay 'yung ayusin lahat ng kailangan ayusin sa MRT3 para ma-restore sa original designed and condition nito. Covered 'yun lahat gaya ng overhauling ng 72 na bagon, total reconditioned sa mga riles natin pati ung power supply ia-upgrade, 'yung signalling system at CCTV natin papalitan," Batan said.
"Isa 'yun sa dahilan kung bakit natin kinuha ang unang nag-design at nag-construct, dahil sa nangyari sa MRT3, sa kundisyon niya ngayon ay maraming sira at maramig ayusin, ang solusyon ay kunin ang original na designer at developers ng MRT3," the DOTr official said.
The overall rehabilitation of MRT3 is expected to take 43 months—31 months for simultaneous rehabilitation and maintenance works and 12 months for the contractor’s "defect liability period." — Ted Cordero/RSJ, GMA News
"Kapag natapos ang rehab na ito parang meron tayong brand new MRT3," Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said in an interview on GMA News TV's News to Go.
Batan earlier said the governments of the Philippines and Japan are set to sign the P18-billion loan agreement for the rehabilitation and maintenance of MRT3 on November 7.
The loan agreement will pave the way for the return of Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries—the designer and builder of the railway system—as the maintenance contractor of the MRT3.
The rehabilitation will cover the trains, the radio system, the CCTV system, the signaling system, the power supply system, and the public address system.
The contractor is also expected to fix the rail tracks, road rail vehicles, depot equipment, elevators and escalators, and other station-building equipment.
"'Yung scope of work ng JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) rehab ay 'yung ayusin lahat ng kailangan ayusin sa MRT3 para ma-restore sa original designed and condition nito. Covered 'yun lahat gaya ng overhauling ng 72 na bagon, total reconditioned sa mga riles natin pati ung power supply ia-upgrade, 'yung signalling system at CCTV natin papalitan," Batan said.
"Isa 'yun sa dahilan kung bakit natin kinuha ang unang nag-design at nag-construct, dahil sa nangyari sa MRT3, sa kundisyon niya ngayon ay maraming sira at maramig ayusin, ang solusyon ay kunin ang original na designer at developers ng MRT3," the DOTr official said.
The overall rehabilitation of MRT3 is expected to take 43 months—31 months for simultaneous rehabilitation and maintenance works and 12 months for the contractor’s "defect liability period." — Ted Cordero/RSJ, GMA News
MPIC to review terms in rehabilitation bid for MRT-3
Metro Pacific Investments Corp.(MPIC) said it would have to review the terms for the rehabilitation, operation and maintenance contract of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 system before submitting a bid, after the chief of the transportation department said it is eyeing a solicited bidding for the project.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade was quoted as saying in news reports that he wants to change the bidding scheme for MRT-3 to a solicited bidding, despite MPIC being awarded an original proponent status (OPS) for the project last year for its unsolicited proposal.
“I will make it solicited. The package will be lock, stock and barrel,” Tugade reportedly said.
MPIC chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said he has read about these reports, but they still have not received any official communication from the DOTr.
“There has been no official communications. So we just have to take his word for it. Assuming the press statements attributed to him are correct,” he said.
Asked if the company is planning to submit a solicited bid, Pangilinan said they would still have to review the terms of the project.
“It depends pretty much on the terms, so we have to review,” he said.
MPIC, through a consortium with Ayala Corp., earlier submitted an unsolicited proposal to upgrade and rehabilitate MRT-3.
Under the proposal, the firm would invest about P12 billion to rehabilitate the train system and there would be no increase in fares for at least two years.
MPIC first submitted a $500-million proposal to rehabilitate MRT-3 in 2011.
The proposal was thumbed down, however, as the offer involved hiking fares.
Pangilinan earlier said the company plans to buy out the government’s stake and other shareholders of the MRT-3 system which runs from North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft station in Pasay.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade was quoted as saying in news reports that he wants to change the bidding scheme for MRT-3 to a solicited bidding, despite MPIC being awarded an original proponent status (OPS) for the project last year for its unsolicited proposal.
“I will make it solicited. The package will be lock, stock and barrel,” Tugade reportedly said.
MPIC chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said he has read about these reports, but they still have not received any official communication from the DOTr.
“There has been no official communications. So we just have to take his word for it. Assuming the press statements attributed to him are correct,” he said.
Asked if the company is planning to submit a solicited bid, Pangilinan said they would still have to review the terms of the project.
“It depends pretty much on the terms, so we have to review,” he said.
MPIC, through a consortium with Ayala Corp., earlier submitted an unsolicited proposal to upgrade and rehabilitate MRT-3.
Under the proposal, the firm would invest about P12 billion to rehabilitate the train system and there would be no increase in fares for at least two years.
MPIC first submitted a $500-million proposal to rehabilitate MRT-3 in 2011.
The proposal was thumbed down, however, as the offer involved hiking fares.
Pangilinan earlier said the company plans to buy out the government’s stake and other shareholders of the MRT-3 system which runs from North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft station in Pasay.
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