‘Build, Build, Build’: TR4 starts construction after ‘eight and final’ groundbreaking

The story of South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) Toll Road 4 (TR4) is a peculiar one. The project spanning 66.74 km broke ground for at least seven times. But Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar promised that the March 26 groundbreaking would be the last one. People who attended the event joked that “hopefully, this is the final groundbreaking.” The right-of-way problem which had previously hounded the project has finally been resolved. Construction will immediately commence the day after.

When completed, the 66.74-km 4-lane expressway is expected to reduce travel time from Manila to Batangas, Quezon, and Laguna by as much as three hours. Villar noted that motorists who usually had to endure a 4-hour drive from Sto. Tomas in Batangas to Lucena  in Quezon Province during rush hour via the Daang Maharlika Highway will only take an hour once the TR4 is complete.

The project, which will be implemented by concessionaire South Luzon Tollways Corporation (SLTC) within four years, is divided into six phases:

11.32-kilometer Package A from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Makban, Laguna.

12.75-kilometer Package B from Makban to San Pablo, Laguna.

7.5-kilometer Package C from San Pablo to Tiaong, Quezon.

15-kilometer Package D from Tiaong to Candelaria, Quezon.

10.21-kilometer Package E from Candelaria to Tayabas, Quezon.

9.96-kilometer Package F from Tayabas to Lucena City, Quezon.

Fortunately, another big-ticket project broke ground the day after — the 27-km Cavite section of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX), a 45-kilometer expressway expected to reduce traffic congestion along Governor’s Drive, Aguinaldo Highway and Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road.

CALAX, which starts from the Cavite Expressway (Cavitex) in Kawit, Cavite, and ends at the SLEX-Mamplasan Interchange in Biñan, Laguna, is expected to reduce travel time from CAVITEX to South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) by about 45 minutes. It is implemented by  MPCALA Holdings, Inc. of the Metro Pacific Group.

The Laguna Segment which commenced in June 2017 involves the construction of an 18-kilometer new road from Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange to the existing Mamplasan Interchange of South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) in Biñan, Laguna.

Both projects is particularly important for Calabarzon, which recorded the largest population as of 2015 with 14.4 million, despite being the 4th smallest region in the country at 16,000 sq. km. The improved road network would also further boost the tourism potential of Calabarzon, which in 2015 is already the top region in terms of same-day visitor arrivals (4,318,625). This is also seen to improve trade and economy of the region which already recorded a Gross Regional Domestic Product valued at 1.45 trillion pesos, according to the National Economic Development Authority.

In essence, Build, Build, Build is a three-pronged strategy meant to counter traffic, poverty, and inequality. According to the World Economic Forum, well-developed infrastructure not only reduces the distance between regions but also integrates national markets and connects them at low costs to other economies.

https://mb.com.ph/2019/03/30/build-build-build-tr4-starts-construction-after-eight-and-final-groundbreaking/

Cavite portion of CALA-Ex on the works

PLDT-DPC Metro Manila Telephone Directory (1995-present)

• 1994 Introduction of the 5 column directory.
• 1995 Segmentation of Household & Business (HB) and Commercial & Industrial (CI) Yellow Pages.
• 1996 Separation of Residential and Government & Business Listings in the White Pages

For 23 years, the DPC-PLDT Metro Manila Telephone Directory has initially had three volumes, later four, and now back to 2 in 2017.

"PLDT Inc. is urging it's subscribers to make full use of their directories because the significant rise in new subscribers is expected to more pressure on its 114 operations." 

x x x 

The higher volume of subscribers and corresponding changes being made on telephone numbers were expected to create a high demand for inquires. 

x x x 

"Due to limitations of printing schedules, some of the more- recent cut-overs, may not be incorporated in the new directories." 

x x x 

"That the latest directory, to be made available to residential subscribers in July 2017," 

x x x 

The white pages will now have a total of 1,XXX pages from 1,xxx of previous year. The Metro Manila Directory's Yellow Pages will now be up to 1,xxx from 1,720 last year. This book is distributed in the Metro Manila areas like Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, Pasig, Pateros, Quezon City, San Juan, San Pedro, Taguig, and Valenzuela. 

x x x

Artemio Bongawan Jr. of the University of Mindanao won the grand prize of the 31st Visual Arts Competition (VAC 31) of the Directories Philippines Corporation and PLDT, Inc. (formerly Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company).

87 artworks with different interpretations of the theme were submitted for the competition, with 30 entries moving up as finalists. The 30 finalist entries were exhibited at the Pasilyo Vicente Manansala at the Cultural Center of the Philippines prior to the final judging and awarding ceremony.

The final judging of VAC31 was held Thursday, March 23, 2017, at the Main Lobby of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in Pasay City.

Entries were judged on the basis of visual composition, originality, adherence to the theme, overall impact, and suitability as cover.

Ding Villamayor, traditional artist and former Art Director at McCann Erickson; Jaime “Jim” Battad, Creative Director at PublicisJimenezBasic and Grand Prize Winner of the 2nd DPC-PLDT Visual Arts Competition in 1988; Ma. Rosario “Rica” Estrada of the CCP’s Visual Arts and Museum Division; Robert Alejandro, former host of TV art show Art is Kool, painter, award-winning graphic artist, crafter and one of the pillars of Filipino arts and crafts shop, Papemelroti; and James “Bong” Baual, Tape Art Pioneer in the Philippines and singer-songwriter of Filipino indie band Dystoria made up the panel of judges.

Covers

1 - June 1987-May 1988, on the cover: "Pacific Rhythm" by Perfecto “Jun” Baloloy, Jr.

2 - June 1988-May 1989, on the cover: "Epoch in Communication" by Jaime “Jim” Battad, Jr.

3 - June 1989-May 1990, on the cover: "A Rich Heritage of Race and Spirit" by Neil Manalo

4 - June 1990-May 1991, on the cover: "Aanhin Pa ang Damo kung Patay na ang Kabayo" by Mario Uy

5 - June 1991-May 1992, on the cover: "Magkabalikat sa Iisang Mithiin" by Rizal D. Maddela

6 - June 1992-May 1993, on the cover: "Sama-sama, Tulong-tulong, Kaunlaran Para sa Ating Lahat" by Modesto P. Saldana, Jr.

7 - June 1993-May 1994, on the cover: "Seal of the noble Filipino" by Rodrigo Clapano

8 - June 1994-May 1995, on the cover: "Paghubog at Paglinang sa mga Bagong Sibol Tungo sa Maunlad at Matatag na Kinabukasan" by Armando E. Flaviano

9 - June 1995-May 1996, on the cover: "Sa Pamilya Magmumula ang Pagbabago at Pag-asa" by Wesley Valenzuela of the University of Santo Tomas

10 - June 1996-May 1997, on the cover: "Sagisag ng Tagumpay" by Alberto Emmanuel Villavert III,

11 - June 1997-May 1998, on the cover: "Sama-sama sa Pagdiwang ng Kalayaan" by Marcial Pontillas

12 - June 1998-May 1999, on the cover: "Kasarinlan at iba pa (Ang Tagumpay ng Bayang Pilipinas)" by Resty A. Tica

13 - June 1999-May 2000, on the cover: "Transformation of Time Towards a Bountiful Life"

14 - June 2000-May 2001, on the cover: "Pagdiriwang"

15 - June 2001-May 2002, on the cover: "Ang Ilog Pasig Noon, Ay Siya Na Muli Ngayon" 29" x 29", oil/acrylic entry of Ronnie T. Tres Reyes of the University of the East-Kalookan.

16 - June 2002-May 2003, on the cover: "I.T. An opening To A New World", 24" x 25", Tempera Watercolor entry of Jaime B. Gubaton

17 - June 2003-May 2004, on the cover: "I Belong to One Big Happy Family" Oil on Canvas entry by Allan Jay Ballisi

18 - June 2004-May 2005, on the cover: "Huwarang hangarin: kabataan pag-asa pa rin ang bayan", 29" x 29" oil on canvass entry of Jaypee Samson

19 - June 2005-May 2006, on the cover: "Manggawang Pinoy: pinagbuklod ng isang layunin, kaya't tawagin natin silang mga bagong bayani", 29" x 29" oil on canvass entry of Jermaine W. Alvarez

20 - June 2006-May 2007, on the cover: "Kabataan, Iguhit Mo ang Bukas, Kulayan Mo ang Pag-Asa", 29"x29" oil entry of Randy T. Solon of the University of the Philippines-Diliman

21 - June 2007-May 2008, on the cover: "Gagamba Noon, Video Game Ngayon"
22 - June 2008-May 2009, on the cover: "Sentro ng Kalakalan" by Arnica Acantilado
23 - June 2009-May 2010, on the cover: "Bantayog"
24 - June 2010-May 2011, on the cover: "Ika-25 ng Pebero, 1986"
25 - June 2011-May 2012, on the cover: "Mga Linyang Tulay ng mga Filipino"
26 - June 2012-May 2013, on the cover: "The Blink"
27 - June 2013-May 2014, on the cover: "Splash of Fun"
28 - June 2014-May 2015, on the cover: "Saranggola"
29 - June 2015-May 2016, on the cover: "
30 - June 2016-May 2017, on the cover: "

Chennai Metro to extend timings in two weeks

To run from 4.30 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Chennai Metro aims to increase its hours of operation, from 4.30 a.m. until 11 p.m., in about two weeks’ time.

The only hitch as of now is that additional security personnel would have to be deployed at stations if services are extended, sources said. Chennai Metro stations are guarded by personnel drawn from a private security firm and the State police, they added.

All the other necessary arrangements, including additional manpower to run trains and manage stations, are already in place to operate the services for the extended duration, another source said.

According to CMRL officials, discussions are on to deploy more security personnel.

“We are already making arrangements and they will be in place at the earliest,” an official said.

At present, Chennai Metro runs services from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. Once the services are extended, there will be one train every half hour during early morning and late night hours. This means, there will be a train at 4.30 a.m., 5 a.m., and 5.30 a.m. From 6 a.m. onwards, there will be a train every seven minutes during peak hours and every 14 minutes during non-peak hours. Similarly, after 10 p.m., there will be a train at 10.30 p.m. and 11 p.m. The first and the last trains will depart from all four terminal stations — St. Thomas Mount, Chennai Central, Washermanpet and Chennai Airport, officials said.

“We want to begin services with a frequency of half hour initially to see how the response is. If we find that several people are using them, then we will certainly increase the frequency in the morning and night as well. We think many passengers taking early morning or late night flights or trains will take this facility,” another source said.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-metro-to-extend-timings-in-two-weeks/article26658082.ece

Phase II of Metro to have screen doors on platforms in all stations

Will prevent people from accessing the tracks

Chennai Metro Rail plans to install platform screen doors (PSD) that will be a protective barrier and prevent commuters from accessing the train tracks, in all elevated stations in the phase II project. The main reason for the installation is to step up security in stations and prevent people from crossing the tracks or attempt suicide in the elevated stations.

The phase II project of Chennai Metro estimated to cost ₹69,180 crore will have 128 stations in the 118.9 km network. In such a vast network, 80 stations will be elevated stations and the rest 48 underground. All of them will have this facility.

Chennai Metro was the first in the country to install these doors in all 19 underground stations in the phase I project itself. According to officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), initially, the plan to install these doors in the underground stations in the phase I project came up for two reasons.

“Unlike the elevated stations, all underground stations are air-conditioned and hence, these doors will ensure that the cool air doesn’t escape into the tunnel. Because if it does, then the electricity consumption of underground stations will go up manyfold. Apart from this, the doors will ensure no one can jump into the tracks,” an official said.

Check suicides

After this, over the last four years, there was one case of suicide attempt at Vadapalani station three years ago, besides a few instances where some commuters have crossed over tracks in a few stations.

“So, when the plan for phase II was chalked out, as an additional step towards improving security, we have been making plans to put up these doors in the elevated stations as well. But unlike the underground stations where the doors will completely cover the platform, in the elevated stations in phase II, the doors will be half the size,” he added.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/phase-ii-of-metro-to-have-screen-doors-on-platforms-in-all-stations/article26638404.ece

Tugade wants 2nd Clark runway built by 2022

CLARK, Pampanga — Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade said he expects a second runway to be built at the Clark International Airport before President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s term ends in 2022.

“Ngayon, parating na ’yung pasahero na lumalapag kaya kailangan maglagay ng second runway (Now that the airline passengers are already arriving, we need to put up a second runway),” Mr. Tugade said in a press briefing during the site inspection of the Clark airport expansion on Wednesday.

The tandem of Megawide Construction Corp. and GMR Infrastructure Ltd. is currently constructing a new passenger terminal building, which is expected to be completed by mid-2020. The new terminal was designed by France’s Aeroport de Paris.

“Doon sa plano ng Aeroport de Paris, hindi limited sa second runway. Tatlong runway ang provision doon. Hindi malayo na pag naging positive at successful tayo sa hangarin magtayo ng second runway, baka bago matapos iyan, planuhin na natin ’yung third runway (Aeroport de Paris’ plan is not limited to a second runway. It can accommodate a third runway. If we are successful in building a second runway, even before it is finished, we can start planning for a third runway),” Mr. Tugade said.

Envisioned as the gateway to Central Luzon, Clark airport is also seen to ease congestion at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

According to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the passenger terminal building is now 53% complete, and is ahead of the target.

BCDA Special Bids and Awards Committee (SBAC) Chairperson Joshua M. Bingcang said Clark airport, according to Aeroport de Paris, can be expanded to handle up to 80 million annual passengers.

“(The plan) has room for two more international runways and three more additional terminals to reach the 80 million passenger target,” Mr. Bingcang said during the briefing.

Sought for comment, Jason Torres, Megawide Assistant Vice-President and Head of Group Corporate Affairs said that GMR-Megawide is not in charge of constructing the second runway which would have to undergo bidding first. — Reicelene Joy N. Ignacio

https://www.bworldonline.com/tugade-wants-2nd-clark-runway-built-by-2022/

LRMC: No political ads at LRT-1 stations

The Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) on Wednesday assured that all stations of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) will have no tarps or posters of 2019 election candidates.

The LRMC issued the statement after Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner Rowena Guanzon ordered the management of LRT-1 and LRT-2 to take down all political ads posted at train stations, particularly the Malasakit center posters.

LRMC Head of Corporate Communications Rochelle Gamboa explained that the LRT-1 has banned tarpaulins and single use plastics in all 20 stations since January 23, 2019.

Gamboa also clarified that LRT-1 has not allowed political ads since the LRMC took over the management of LRT-1 in 2015.

“LRMC has adopted the “No to Single Use Plastic Policy” last January 23,” Gamboa told INQUIRER.net in a text message. “Even before the Comelec’s directive, we have already banned tarps on LRT-1 stations. No political ads allowed ever.”

In a Twitter post on Wednesday, Guanzon tagged the official accounts of LRT lines 1 and 2, saying that their stations have Malasakit Center streamers.

The Malasakit Center is a program of the Duterte administration to establish one-stop shops in hospitals to hasten the delivery of free medical services to the poor.

Guanzon also earlier called out the Department of Health (DOH) for allowing Malasakit center posters bearing the name and picture of administration-backed senatorial bet Bong Go displayed in state-run hospitals.

INQUIRER.net has also sought the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), which manages the LRT-2, for comment but we have yet to receive a response. /ee

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1100509/lmrc-no-political-ads-at-lrt-1-stations

27-km Cavite segment of CALAX starts construction

By Betheena Kae Unite

Construction of the Cavite segment of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) has begun Wednesday.

It is a four-lane toll road project that starts from CAVITEX in Kawit, Cavite and ends at the SLEX-Mamplasan Interchange in Biñan, Laguna. It has eight interchanges and one main toll barrier.

The construction of the Cavite Segment, which is nine kilometers longer than the Laguna segment, will include three subsections, according to Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar.

Cavite Segment starts in CAVITEX Connection in Kawit, Cavite to Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange.

It includes the 8.58-kilometer CAVITEX Connection to Open Canal Interchange, the 10.8-kilometer Open Canal Interchange to Governor’s Drive Interchange and the 7.80-kilometer Governor’s Drive Interchange to Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange, making the segment 27.18-kilometer long.

Its Laguna Segment, on the other hand, commenced in June 2017. It involves the construction of an 18-kilometer new road from Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange to the existing Mamplasan Interchange of South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) in Biñan, Laguna.

CALAX is a P35.425-billion project that is being implemented by the private concessionaire MPCALA Holdings, Inc. of the Metro Pacific Group under Public-Private Partnership Program of the government.

It also has a bridge component of 12,207 meters inclusive of 4,618 meters of viaduct.

“One of the goals of this project is to support the national development policy and provide efficient transport facilities for the Eco-zones located in Laguna and Cavite,” Villar said during the inauguration of the project.

The project is also expected to decongest roads leading to the south, citing that “there is occurring traffic congestion in Governor’s Drive, Aguinaldo Highway, and Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road.”

“And speaking of traffic congestion, this project will also help reduce the travel time from CAVITEX to SLEX by about 45 minutes,” the secretary added.

The infrastructure project, he noted, is under the Luzon Spine Network Program which aims to double expressways to help alleviate traffic in congested cities and provinces.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/27/27-km-cavite-segment-of-calax-starts-construction/

Cavite governor wants PITX suspended

The governor of Cavite wants the operations of the controversial Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) suspended due to the inconvenience it supposedly causes passengers traveling from the province to Metro Manila.

"I think should be suspended for the mean time until the LRT is there," Remulla said at sidelines of the groundbreaking for the Cavite segment of Cavite-Laguna Expressway in Imus on Wednesday.

In May 2017, private operator Light Rail Manila Corp. and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) broke ground for the LRT1 Cavite extension project. Full-blown construction, however, has not started yet due to issues of right of way.

LRMC said it is finally pushing through with the LRT-1's Cavite extension in April. The project shall connect to the existing Baclaran Station to eight new stations namely Redemptorist, NAIA Avenue, Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, Dr. Santos, Las Pinas, Zapote, and Niog.

With the absence of a new mode of transport for Cavite commuters, Remulla said the existence of PITX has only worsened the situation for passengers.

"The LRT extension should be there because it's supposed to be intermodal," he said.

The PITX terminal building includes three levels consisting of departure bays for buses, jeepneys, and taxis, arrival bays for buses, private vehicle facilities (parking spaces, AUV bays) and connection to the proposed LRT-1 extension project.

"It does not serve the general public right now. It is not for public convenience, rather a public inconvenience," he added.

The P2.5-billion PITX was opened in November 2018.

Commuters going to Metro Manila from Cavite and vice versa complained of inconvenience, saying that the PITX only complicated their daily commute and increased the cost of fares. Users also complained of long queues as only few buses served the terminal.

"Since the beginning, we listen to recommendations of the public, and that is why we have come up with solutions to certain concerns such as stricter enforcement, provision of free shuttle services, and the addition of franchises to serve PITX, especially those that commute to and from Cavite," Transportation Assistant Secretary Goddess Hope Libiran said in a separate text message to reporters.

"If you will notice, more and more people are appreciating the existence of PITX now. DOTr has been receiving positive comments about the facility now," Libiran said.

"Of course, the system is not yet perfect, but DOTr and Megawide, in coordination with all concerned agencies are working hand in hand to make its operations smooth and efficient," she said.

Previously called the Southwest Integrated Transport System (ITS) during the Aquino administration, PITX was bid out as a PPP project in 2014.

Under the concession agreement, winning bidder MWM Terminals—a consortium of Megawide Construction Corporation and WM Property Management, Inc.—will build and operate PITX for 35 years before transferring it back to the government.

Located along Coastal Road, the PITX will provide inter-connectivity between different transport services and is expected to help reduce the number of provincial buses plying along EDSA and Taft Avenue in Pasay City. — BM, GMA News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/689408/cavite-governor-wants-pitx-suspended/story/

Metro Pacific’s MPCALA breaks ground for CALAEx Cavite segment

IMUS, Cavite — Pangilinan-led Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation's  (MPTC) unit MPCALA Holdings Inc. on Wednesday broke ground for the Cavite segment of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAEx).

CALAEx's Cavite segment comprises 27 kilometers of the 45-kilometer tollroad.

The projects begins from Kawit and will traverse Imus Open Canal, Governor's Drive, Damarinas, Aguinaldo Highway, and Silay, which will connect to the Laguna segment.

The groundbreaking ceremony was led by MPCALA officials and Public Works Secretary Mark Villar.

"The DPWH team and the 'Build, Build, Build' team are truly making the Public Private Partnership work with ease as we witness another milestone for CALAEx," Villar said.

The Cavite segment has an estimated cost of P12 billion. The tollroad will feature automatic license plate recognition system, which will provide additional vehicle identification to enable barrier-less entry.

It will also have an radio frequency identification for efficient lane throughput, weigh in motion sensors to detect overloaded vehicles, IP-based speed detection cameras, and HD CCTVs covering the entire expressway for traffic monitoring and incident detection.

Meanwhile, the construction of the Laguna segment is ongoing. The Laguna segment is comprised of Sta. Rosa exiting to Mamplasan, Binan towards the South Luzon Expressway.

The CALAEx is expected to be completed in 2020. Upon completion, the expressway is seen to reduce travel time from 2.5 hours to under 45 minutes and will help decongest approximately 50,000 cars.

"With the Laguna segment well underway and substantially completed by July this year, we will simultaneously, push for the Cavite segment to meet Laguna in a timely manner," Villar said.

"The Laguna segment now in full swing will employ up to 12,000 personnel, and we expect to additionally employ close to 1,300 site and office personnel as construction progresses for the Cavite segment," MPCALA president and general manager Roberto Bonita said.

The public-private partnership CALAEx was awarded to MPCALA in 2015. It has concession period of 35 years, including five years for design and construction. — BM, GMA News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/689399/metro-pacific-rsquo-s-mpcala-breaks-ground-for-calaex-cavite-segment/story/

Construction of CALAEX Cavite segment starts

The Cavite-Laguna Expressway is expected to reduce travel time from the Cavitex to the SLEX by 45 minutes

The Cavite portion of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAEX), which the government dubbed the "most modern" toll road, began construction on Wednesday, March 27.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) subsidiary MPCALA Holdings, along with Cavite provincial government officials, broke ground for the 27-kilometer, 4-lane segment in Imus City.

The P12-billion project is targeted to be completed in 36 months, or by 2022.

Once done, the segment will be connected to the Cavite Expressway (Cavitex) from the Kawit toll road to the Imus Open Canal, Governor's Drive in Dasmariñas City, and Aguinaldo Highway in Silang.

It will be linked to the Laguna segment in Sta Rosa, Laguna, all the way to Mamplasan in Biñan City toward the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). The construction of the Laguna portion is still ongoing.

The 44.6-kilometer CALAEX will connect nearby industrial zones to the capital of one of Asia's fastest-growing economies.

"Our objective is to provide seamless connection from [the] east to west sides of Southern Luzon," Public Works Secretary Mark Villar said.

DPWH, Metro Pacific group broke ground the Cavite segment of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway @rapplerdotcom pic.twitter.com/Uzetn6WQJt

— Aika Rey (@reyaika) March 27, 2019

The CALAEX is expected to reduce travel time from the Cavitex to the SLEX, from the current 90 minutes to only 45. The DPWH expects around 50,000 vehicles to pass through the expressway.

The "most modern" toll road in the Philippines would have an improved radio-frequency identification system, automatic license plate recognition system, and weigh-in motion sensors to check overloaded vehicles.

MPCALA will also dot the toll road with high-definition CCTV cameras and internet protocol speed detection cameras for traffic monitoring and incident detection.

The CALAEX is part of the network of toll roads MPTC is building. MPTC is the tollways unit of the Manuel Pangilinan-led Metro Pacific Investments Corporation.

It will also be connected to the C5 South Link through the Cavitex, which MPTC expects to partially open in May.

Last December, MPCALA secured a P24.2-billion loan from the country's top banks for the CALAEX.

https://www.rappler.com/business/226760-calaex-cavite-segment-construction-starts-march-2019

Consortium for NAIA rehab gets end-April ultimatum

By Denise A. Valdez
Reporter

THE DEPARTMENT of Transportation (DoTr) may drop the proposal of a consortium made up of some of the country’s major conglomerates to take over Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) rehabilitation if it is unable to finalize its contract terms for the project by next month.

Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade said in a media briefing on Tuesday that he wants a definite decision on the group’s proposal by end-April, as discussions on its concession terms have been under way since September last year.

“Doon sa NAIA, merong consortium of seven dyan kung saan tumatagal na ’yung usapan. Kaya sinabi ko, gusto ko na lagyan ng cap. Sabi ko by April 30, pag hindi pa tayo nagkasundo-sundo, gagawin na namin ’yung mga proyekto on the DoTr side. Kasi gusto ko mapabilis ’yung desisyon sa unsolicited proposal ng consortium (On the NAIA rehabilitation, there is a consortium of seven that has been taking long to firm up its proposal. So I wanted to put a cap to this. I told them that if we have not agreed on anything by April 30, the DoTr will do what it can on its own, because I want a quick decision on the consortium’s unsolicited proposal),” he said.

Asked to clarify what the DoTr will do with the proposal past Apr. 30, Mr. Tugade said, “Ang sasabihin ko, ayaw ko nang makipag-usap sa consortium of seven (I will say I don’t want to talk to the consortium anymore).”

The consortium formed by seven of the country’s top conglomerates bagged original proponent status (OPS) from the DoTr in September for its P102-billion proposal to rehabilitate and expand the country’s main air gateway. It is expected to increase the airport’s capacity from the current 30.5 million annual passengers to 47 million in two years and to 65 million in four years.

The seven companies are Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc.; AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp.; Alliance Global Group, Inc.; Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corp.; Filinvest Development Corp.; JG Summit Holdings, Inc. and Metro Pacific Investments Corp.

After gaining headway through the OPS, the group proceeded to discuss with the DoTr the concession terms of the project, before it is submitted to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) for evaluation.

The DoTr planned to do this by end-2018, but the two parties have yet to arrive at an agreement to date.

Sought for comment, NAIA consortium Spokesperson Jose Emmanuel “Jimbo” P. Reverente said in a mobile phone message on Tuesday only that the group will “comply with the stated deadline of Secretary Tugade.”

Asked for the specific points of contention between the private proponent and the DoTr, Mr. Tugade replied: “Kung ano ’yung mga improvements na ilalagay. Remember, meron silang tinatawag na (people mover) — ’yung mga ganyan. Eh bilisan na nila ’yun, isumite na nila sa amin ’yun. (Details of improvements that will be undertaken. Remember, they talked about a people mover — things like that. They should act faster because we want to submit this proposal to NEDA already).”

Mr. Tugade also aired the possibility of reviewing alternatives should the consortium’s proposal fall through. “May proseso ’yan eh, diba, na unsolicited. Pag pinagawa, pag hindi na-ano yung isa, i-entertain mo ‘yung pangalawa, kung gusto namin ‘yun (There’s a process for unsolicited proposals. If we ask for something, and the other one cannot do it, you entertain the second to see if we will like it),” he said.

Aside from the consortium, the tandem of Megawide Construction Corp. and Indian company GMR Infrastructure Ltd. — which is behind the Mactan-Cebu International Airport — also submitted last year a $3-billion proposal to rehabilitate NAIA. This was set aside to prioritize the consortium’s proposal, which was submitted earlier.

Meanwhile, the P735-billion Bulacan airport proposal of San Miguel Corp. unit San Miguel Holdings Corp. (SMHC) is expected to undergo Swiss challenge next month.

“Inaayos namin ’yung (We’re preparing the) terms of reference for the Swiss challenge. Pagka naayos na natin ito (Once we will have finalized it), hopefully within the next two weeks matatapos na itong negotiation na ito, ipa-publish na natin ito (we will finish negotiations and we will publish a call for other proposals),” Transportation Undersecretary for Aviation Manuel Antonio L. Tamayo said in the same briefing.

Under the Swiss challenge, the government will invite third parties to match the original proposal within a 60-day period.

https://www.bworldonline.com/consortium-for-naia-rehab-gets-end-april-ultimatum/

Passenger information system to be installed in LRT, MRT

PHAR Philippines, Inc. and Trackmate Business Solutions, Inc. have teamed up to install a passenger information system called Tube in Metro Manila’s trains.

In a statement, PHAR and Trackmate said over 1,000 screens will be installed across the train system in Metro Manila.

The Tube system has already been installed in the Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2). For Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and LRT Line 1, it will be installed by early April and July, respectively.

“With the system from Tube, an easier and more comfortable commute awaits LRT and MRT passengers as this new technology will keep them abreast with real-time information and other vital train service information apart from keeping them entertained. This improved technology works parallel with the mission of LRTA to give Filipino commuters an enhanced mobility and world class transport system,” LRTA Administrator Reynaldo I. Berroya said in a statement.

Patented in the Philippines, Tube will provide commuters real time information on the next station, as well as when there is an emergency or disruption in operations. It also has a built-in closed-circuit television (CCTV) which will inform operators of the current situation inside the train.

Commuters will also be provided with news, weather reminders, traffic situation, and short videos from local creators.

PHAR is an international media and marketing firm that mainly caters to airlines, airports, transit systems, smart cities, and retail destinations. Trackmate Business Solutions is a global positioning system (GPS) provider and fleet management system developer in the Philippines. — Vincent Mariel P. Galang

https://www.bworldonline.com/passenger-information-system-to-be-installed-in-lrt-mrt/

MRT-3 rehab to begin in April says Japanese funder

The rehabilitation of the MRT-3 will begin this April, an official of the Japanese agency funding the project said Tuesday.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency said Sumitomo Corp and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will restore the entire MRT railway system.

The trains once fixed, will run twice faster at 60 kilometers per hour, while waiting times for passengers will be cut down to 3.5 minutes from the current 7 minutes, said Kiyo Kawabuchi, JICA Senior Representative for the Philippine Office.

Kawabuchi said the rehab is expected to be finished within 43 months.

Besides the MRT-3 rehab, JICA is also funding the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway because JICA believes these projects would greatly impact the economic development of the Philippines, she said.

"Japan really wants to support the 'Build, Build, Build' project because it is now the chance for the Philippines to transform the entire life of the Filipinos especially in Metro Manila," Kawabuchi said in an exclusive interview with ANC.

With several railways being built, the agency is also backing the establishment of the Philippine National Railway Institute to train personnel who will operate the different railways.

"By fostering the human resource, the government of the Philippines would like to ensure the sustainable operation of all those railway networks," said Kawabuchi.

JICA, she said, has committed 230 billion yen (P109.5 billion) alone so far to support the Duterte administration's infrastructure program.

"That is quite a huge volume to provide assistance to one country in one year," Kawabuchi said.

Japan's loans to the Philippines will have 0.1 percent interest, with a payment period of 40 years, including a grace period of 12 years.

"The strength of our loan is not just the financial concessionality but we also support the surrounding policies of the government of the Philippines to make sure that each project will be implemented and takes place in the expected [schedule]," she said.

Japan's interest in providing infrastructure loans to the Philippines comes at a time of increased trade and investment interest by China, alongside warmer ties between Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Rodrigo Duterte, and as China's influence in the world grows through the Belt and Road Initiative.

When asked about whether the Tokyo Olympics 2020 construction might hamper promptness in constructing these projects, she assured the Olympics construction is all done with and "we're focused on the Philippines."

When asked whether JICA can and will deliver on time and on budget, she said JICA and government are now working closely, regularly meeting to ensure these deadlines and budgets are set.

When Japan funded the SCTex, its initial cost was P15 billion, but the tollway ended up costing P27 billion after delays.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/business/03/26/19/mrt-3-rehab-to-begin-in-april-says-japanese-funder

Passenger information system to be installed in Metro Manila trains by April

A thousand screens of the TUBE Passenger Information System are set to be installed in trains of the three main rail lines — Light Right Transit Lines 1 and 2 and the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 — in Metro Manila by April.

In an emailed statement, PHAR Philippines Inc. said TUBE is a GPS-triggered real-time passenger information system which lets riders know the next train station, and alerts them of emergencies of disruptions to train service.

TUBE is equipped with CCTVs, which will help train operators with real-time congestion information, as well as incident reporting. It also shows news articles, weather reminders, traffic updates, and short-form videos.

Already installed on all trains of the LRT2, TUBE — a joint venture of PHAR Philippines Inc. and Trackmate Business Solutions Inc. — is set to be fully operational on all MRT3 trains by April and on the LRT1 by July.

"With the system from TUBE, an easier and more comfortable commute awaits LRT and MRT passengers as this new technology will keep them abreast with real-time information and other vital train service information apart from keeping them entertained," Light Rail Transit Authority Administrator Reynaldo Berroya was quoted as saying.

"With this technology, not only will it help uplift train riders' commuting experience, but it is a small step towards modernizing our railway system," added DOTr-MRT-3 General Manager Rodolfo Garcia. — RSJ, GMA News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/metro/689267/passenger-information-system-to-be-installed-in-metro-manila-trains-by-april/story/

San Miguel to break ground on new toll road in South Luzon

San Miguel Corp's toll road unit is set to break ground on a new expressway that will connect the provinces of Laguna, Batangas and Quezon, the company said Monday.

SMC said it will hold groundbreaking ceremonies on Tuesday for its 66.74-kilometer South Luzon Expressway Toll Road 4 (TR4).

The new toll road is expected to reduce travel time to and from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Barangay Mayao in Lucena City from 3 hours to just 45 minutes.

“We believe that the TR4 will further unlock the economic potential and promote tourism in Laguna, Batangas, Quezon and Bicol provinces,” said SMC president and COO Ramon Ang.

The toll road, SMC said, will be divided into six sections, namely: Sto Tomas, Batangas to Makban in Laguna (11.32 km); Makban to San Pablo City (12.75 km); San Pablo to Tiaong in Quezon (7.5 km), Tiaong to Candelaria (15 km); Candelaria to Tayabas (10.21 km) and Tayabas to Lucena (9.96 km).

SMC's South Luzon Tollway Corporation (SLTC) will operate the new toll road, which is seen boosting economic activity in the area through the faster transport and delivery of goods and services.

Ang said he eyes opening the new toll road within 36 months.

Besides the SLEX, SMC also operates the Star Tollway, Skyway, the NAIA Expressway and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/business/03/25/19/san-miguel-to-break-ground-on-new-toll-road-in-south-luzon

EDSA-bound lanes on North Avenue closed to traffic from March 21-22

The EDSA-bound lanes of North Avenue in Quezon City will be closed to traffic starting late night of March 21(Thursday) until early morning of March 22 (Friday), according to an advisory from the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The closure of the EDSA-bound lanes of North Avenue, from Elliptical Road up to Mindanao Avenue, will start on Thursday at 11 p.m. until 5 a.m. on Friday, the advisory said.

Motorists heading to EDSA are advised to take Quezon Avenue while vehicles going to Veterans Memorial Medical Center may take Quezon Avenue, then turn right to Agham Road to North Avenue.

The closure of the lanes will give way to Meralco's relocation of power lines, which are affected by the ongoing construction of the MRT7 Project.

On Thursday night, the Meralco Team will also work along Elliptical Road and East Avenue, wherein one lane of the said roads will be affected.

“The Task Force seeks the public’s understanding for the inconvenience that may be caused during the closure. Traffic enforcers will be deployed at the above mentioned working areas for assistance,” DOTr said. —Joviland Rita/KBK, GMA News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/688704/edsa-bound-lanes-on-north-avenue-closed-to-traffic-from-march-21-22/story/

Spanish-era train station demolished in Caloocan

Heritage advocates renewed their call to convert a Spanish-era train station in Caloocan to a museum, after a portion of its wall was destroyed to give way to a segment of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) extension.

The train station dates back to the first railway system in the country, established by the London-based Manila Railways Co. (MRC), the predecessor of the Philippine National Railways (PNR).

The station’s wall was demolished so a post of the NLEX Harborlink, an elevated highway running from Manila to Marulas in Valenzuela, could be erected. The Harborlink cuts the travel time for trucks coming from Manila’s port to northern Metro Manila.

“They should have increased the height of the highway so that the post can be put somewhere else,” said architect Wilmer Godoy of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) historic preservation division. “But we were told they could not do that because there is a timeline to meet.”

PNR general manager Junn Magno told The STAR that it was lamentable the Harborlink segment was built over the old station in the rush to erect the foundations.

Link to history

With the destruction of the wall came the demolition of its history.

The old Caloocan station was used by Aguinaldo’s ill-fated general, Antonio Luna, in sending telegrams during the war, Magno said.

According to Arturo Corpuz in his book “The Colonial Horse: Railroads and Regional Development in the Philippines 1875-1935,” the MRC was established with Thomas Higgins as general manager in the late 19th century as part of the worldwide trend of technological advances in transportation.

The MRC cooperated with Emilio Aguinaldo’s revolutionary government until the railway system was taken over by the American forces. The firm even paid revolutionary taxes, according to the book.

The old Caloocan station was a key entry point of the Manila-Dagupan line between the north and central Luzon, a key “geographical axis about which the war was initially fought” especially because several skirmishes erupted in Luzon, the book stated.

In an Aug. 31, 1898 general order in response to Higgin’s request to continue operations despite the war, Aguinaldo ordered his troops to guard the Caloocan station and inspect the trains, with the old Caloocan station as a key entry point to the north.

“The military role of the Manila-Dagupan railroad ... was most significant at the turn of the century, when it was an influential element of events that led to and shaped the geography of the Philippine-American war,” Corpuz said in the book.

Damage

The Harborlink segment violated the five-meter buffer zone for heritage structures 50 years and older under the law despite consultations between the NHCP and the concessionaire to spare it, according to Godoy.

Fortunately, the old MRC office in front of the old station – the Thomas Higgins Hall, named after the first general manager – was spared, although the highway was built just inches away from the heritage building, subjecting it to the risks of vibration from passing vehicles.

In a television interview, Public Works Secretary Mark Villar said he will look into the reason why the heritage structure was destroyed.

“We’ll be investigating what happened. If there is any flaws in the procedure, we’ll act on it,” Villar said in a television interview.

The old Caloocan station can still be saved, Godoy said, perhaps as a museum, because the three other walls and the bricks from the demolished wall remain just waiting to be preserved under the shadows of the Harborlink segment.

“We always recommend to them to make use of the old station, to incorporate it in the new development. It could function as a station or maybe a museum,” Godoy said.

“We have to create awareness about heritage structures, so that it can be preserved for the next generation to appreciate,” Magno added.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/03/17/1902081/spanish-era-train-station-demolished-caloocan

Headquarters Groundbreaking Feb 2019

PNR sets pre-bidding for Malolos-Clark line

By Emmie V. Abadilla

Shortly after breaking ground for the over P2-billion Philippine National Railways (PNR) Clark Phase 1 linking Tutuban, Manila with Malolos, Bulacan, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) conducted the pre-bidding for the 2nd Phase of the project, the Malolos City-Clark segment.

A total of 21 companies from 7 Asian Development Bank (ADB ) Member Countries and representatives from 4 embassies attended the pre-bidding for Phase 2 of the project, the DOTr confirmed over the weekend.

Specifically, the DOTr and the Philippine National Railways (PNR), through the project’s procuring agent, the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM), conducted the Pre-Bidding for Contact Packages N-01 to N-03, which covers 44.8-km. and 5 stations from Malolos, Bulacan to the Clark Freeport Zone.

This provided a venue for interested bidders to seek clarification on the bidding documents which the DOTr published at the end of January, 2019.

ADB will finance the Civil Works Contract Packages, following the bank’s Guidelines for Procurement of Works, through Open Competitive Bidding.

A couple more ADB-financed Civil Works Contract Packages will be launched by 2nd Quarter 2019, while the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) financed Electromechanical Systems and Rolling Stock (trains) Contract Packages will be launched soon after.

“This is the largest railway project the Philippines has embarked on since 1917. It has never been duplicated,” says PNR General Manager Junn Magno. “We want this pre-bid process to be open, fair and equitable.”

PNR Clark Phase 2 will feature the country’s first airport express railway service, which will connect passengers from Manila to Clark International Airport in less than an hour.

One of the largest projects in the Duterte Administration’s infrastructure program, the 147-kilometer, 37-stations of the P777.5-billion North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) system will seamlessly integrate the 38-km. Tutuban-Malolos segment, the 53-km. Malolos-Clark segment, and the 56-km. Manila-Calamba segment, connecting 26 cities and municipalities across the regions of Central Luzon, NCR, and CALABARZON.

https://business.mb.com.ph/2019/03/12/pnr-sets-pre-bidding-for-malolos-clark-line

Motoring Today | Motoring Forum: PNR Clark Phase 1 Project

It has been said that train systems in the country were not prioritized in the past decades. It is now that the government is pushing for it to help improve the country’s transport system. Just recently, the governments of Philippines and Japan led the groundbreaking ceremony of the Tutuban to Malolos leg of the North-South Commuter Railway known as the PNR Clark Phase 1. On Motoring Today’s Motoring Forum, we have no less than the General Manager of the PNR, Mr. Jun Magno, to give us more insights into this project. Watch this.

18-km Laguna section of Calax to open in July

The 18-kilometer Laguna section of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway is set to open in July, according to its builder and operator.

“We are targeting to open the Laguna segment of Calax by July this year,” said Roberto Bontia, president of MPCala Holdings Inc., a unit of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp.

Bontia said the construction of the Laguna segment of Calax would be completed in June.

The toll for the Laguna segment, or from Mamplasan to Sta. Rosa section of Calax, is P4.50 per kilometer.

MPCala tapped local contractor DMCI Consunji Inc. to build the Laguna side of the 47-km Calax and Leighton Holdings of Australia to construct the Cavite side.

Calax, one of the largest public-private partnership projects, involves the financing, design, construction, operation and maintenance of a four-lane, 47-kilometer closed-system toll expressway connecting Cavitex (Manila–Cavite Expressway) and South Luzon Expressway.

The P35.43-billion expressway will start from Cavitex in Kawit, Cavite and end at the SLEx-Mamplasan Interchange in Biñan, Laguna.

The Laguna segment is a four-lane highway with four interchanges from Aguinaldo Interchange to the existing Mamplasan Interchange of South Luzon Expressway in Biñan, Laguna.

Once completed, Calax is expected to ease traffic between Cavite and Laguna, particularly along Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay–Santa Rosa Road and Governor’s Drive.

MPCala won a 35-year concession for the project, including the period of design and construction.

MPCala also secured the original proponent status from the Public Works Department for its unsolicited proposal to build the P22.43-billion Cavite-Batangas Expressway.

CTBex is a 49-kilometer expressway that will connect Cavite and Batangas, with a spur road to Tagaytay City and ultimately terminating in Nasugbu, with another spur road to Tuy, Batangas.

Once completed, the project would cut travel time from Sta. Rosa, Laguna to Nasugbu, Batangas from 2.5 hours to just an hour.

The project will start at Silang East Interchange of Cavite-Laguna Expressway. The alignment will traverse the towns of Silang, Amadeo, Mendez and Alfonso in Cavite, Tagaytay City and Nasugbu in Batangas.

MPTC is also constructing the P27.9-billion Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway project in the Visayas. The 8.25-km bridge project, set to be completed by 2020, will connect Cebu City to Mactan Island via Cordova.

The group is also building the NLEx-SLEx Connector Road, an elevated expressway to connect the northern and southern toll road systems at a cost of P23 billion.

http://manilastandard.net/business/biz-plus/289709/18-km-laguna-section-of-calax-to-open-in-july.html

Fatter phone books seen as Zero Backlog continues

The Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company is urging its subscribers to make full use of their telephone directories because significant rise in new subscribers is expected to exert more pressure on its 114 operators.

PLDT manager for Directories Management Elvie Topacio said that the higher volume of subscribers and corresponding changes being made on telephone numbers were expected to create a high demand for inquiries.

Apart from addressing the demand for telephones, Zero Backlog aims to digitize all telephones, which would require a change in telephone numbers from seven to eight digits.

PLDT last July also announced its readiness for the migration from the existing seven-digit format to eight digits.

The NTC issued Memorandum Order 10-10-2017 in October 2017 directing all telecommunications companies in the country to migrate all customers within the area code 02 to eight-digit telephone numbers to ensure that there will be sufficient resource pool to cater to the rapid growth of landline customers in major cities.

For PLDT, the assigned PTE identifier is 8.

READ: NTC defers 8-digit landline number implementation

Topacio said that due to limitations of printing schedules, some of the more recent cut-overs, may note be incorporated in the new directories.

The PLDT provides an intercept service to subscribers affected by cut-overs for one month. The intercept service is a recorded message which informs callers of the new number of the subscriber.

Topacio said that the latest directory, to be made available to residential subscribers in July would have 726 pages from 708 in 2018 for the Rizal directory, which is distributed in the eastern areas like Antipolo, Cainta, Angono, Binangonan, Taytay, Tanay, Rodriguez, San Mateo and Morong. The white pages will now have a total of 1,200 pages from 1,022 in the previous year.

The Metro Manila Directory's Yellow Pages will now be up to 1,920 from 1,720 last year. This book is distributed in the Metro Manila areas like Makati, Quezon City, Manila, Mandaluyong, Pasig, Paranaque, Las Pinas, Muntinlupa, San Pedro, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Obando and Meycauayan.

Topacio said that the 2019 telephone directories would contain the numbers of new telephones installed under the Zero Backlog Program between January 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018. Telephones installed after March 31, 2019 will be listed in the 2019-2020 edition.

The Zero Backlog program targets the installation of one million new telephones by 2021. By this time, Topacio said, subscribers should expect a drastically new look of their directories.

DOTr seeks bidders for Phase 2 of Malolos-Clark Railway

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has invited interested firms to join the bidding for the construction of the P628-billion, 52-kilometer Phase 2  railway from Malolos, Bulacan to the Clark International Airport.

DOTr Undersecretary Timothy John Batan said the contract would be divided into three packages as approved by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA). He said the project should be finished by Sept. 2022.

Batan said that when finished, the railway system, whose ongoing Phase 1 would run from Tutuban in Manila to Malolos, would be capable of accommodating 550,000 passengers daily and would have stations in Malolos and Calumpit in Bulacan, as well as in Apalit, San Fernando and Angeles City in Pampanga.

He said the DOTr’s terms of reference (TOR) for the project would consist of underground tunnel in the area of Clark freeport.

Funds are to be sourced from the Asian Development Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Batan also said the ADB would provide P286 billion to cover major structures such as viaducts, bridges and stations, while JICA would provide P201 billion for the assembling of the train cars and other electro-mechanical needs.

This, he said, is on top of the P201 billion to be shouldered by the Philippine government for other project needs.

Batan also reported that the construction of the Phase 1 of the railway project from Manila to Malolos has already started and would cost P193 billion when finished. Of the total cost, some P93 billion would come from JICA.

https://www.philstar.com/business/2019/03/09/1899815/dotr-seeks-bidders-phase-2-malolos-clark-railway

Marubeni-Consunji tandem bags LRT-2 East E&M contract

THE consortium of Japanese firm Marubeni Corp. and engineering and construction firm D.M. Consunji, Inc. secured the $62-million (about P3.24-billion) contract for the Manila Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 2 East Extension project.

In a disclosure to the stock exchange on Friday, DM Consunji’s parent DMCI Holdings, Inc. said its consortium was awarded the electrical and mechanical (E&M) package for the four-kilometer railway system extension with two additional stations, Emerald and Masinag.

DM Consunji will be in charge of the trackwork procurement and construction, as well as the installation of E&M systems. The company noted that it was also the one responsible for a viaduct and two new stations in the project, which will soon be completed.

For its part, Marubeni will be responsible for the overall administration and procurement of E&M railway systems since it is the consortium leader.

The LRT-2 East Extension project is among the projects funded by a 43.2-billion yen-credit facility by the Japanese government, as part of the “Capacity Enhancement of Mass Transit Systems in Metro Manila Project.”

The extension project is seen to reduce travel time from Manila to Antipolo and vice versa to as fast as 30 minutes from the current three hours.

Marubeni was also the firm that constructed LRT-2 from 2000 to 2004. The 13.8-kilometer elevated metro line connects the eastern and western parts of Metro Manila. The existing train system has a ridership of 250,000 people daily, from Recto Station in Manila to Santolan Station in Pasig City.

The Japanese firm’s other projects in the country include the improvement and modernization of Commuter Line South Project, and the LRT-1 capacity expansion project’s first and second phases.

“Utilizing its vast experiences, as well as know-how acquired through the successful implementation of this Project, Marubeni will further contribute to social and economic growth in the Philippines by participating in more railway and infrastructure projects in the near future,” the company said. — Arra B. Francia

https://www.bworldonline.com/marubeni-consunji-tandem-bags-lrt-2-east-em-contract/

Marubeni, DMCI bag $62-M contract for LRT-2 East Extension Project

A $62 million contract for the Manila LRT Line 2 East Extension Project has been awarded to Japan’s Marubeni Corp. and local contractor D.M Consunji Inc.

In a disclosure to the stock exchange on Friday, conglomerate DMCI Holdings said its construction arm will be in charge of track-work procurement, as well as construction and the installation of electrical and mechanical systems for the four-kilometer railway system extension project with two additional stations.

Marubeni, as consortium leader, will be responsible for overall administration and the procurement of electrical and mechanical “package” for the railway system.

“The project is one part of the ‘Capacity Enhancement of Mass Transit Systems in Metro Manila Project,’ which has been financed with ¥43.2 billion of Japanese governmental Yen-Credit, and it will contribute to reduction of both traffic congestion and air pollution, which are particularly severe problems in Metro Manila,” DMCI said.

DMCI is the contractor for the construction of a viaduct and two new stations - Emerald and Masinag - for the LRT-2 East Extension Project. “Construction on these items will soon be completed,” the company said.

The additional two stations are designed to accommodate an additional 80,000 passengers daily during its first 5 years of operation, which will add to the current LRT-2 average daily ridership of 240,000. — Ian Nicolas Cigaral

https://www.philstar.com/business/2019/03/08/1899781/marubeni-dmci-bag-62-m-contract-lrt-2-east-extension-project

NTC defers 8-digit landline number implementation

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has deferred the implementation of the eight-digit landline number in Greater Manila Area to October 6, 2019 in order to give sufficient time for local banks and credit card companies to prepare for the change.

In its advisory, the NTC said the Banker Associations of the Philippines (BAP) and the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) have requested for the deferment of the migration of Area Code 02 landline numbers from 7 digits to 8 digits from March 18 to October 6 which covers the areas of Metro Manila, Rizal province, the city of Meycauayan, Bulacan, San Pedro, Laguna and municipality of Obando, Bulacan.

Among the reasons cited by the BAP and CCAP are to update client phone numbers and period for rigid testing and validation prior to full migration; conduct of an intensive and expansive campaign for clients especially those overseas including updating banks’ marketing collaterals on requisite hotlines; and compliance with rules and regulations of regulatory agencies such as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

"BAP and CCAP initially requested for deferment of the implementation to January 2020. Extensive consultations were conducted between the Commission, public telecommunications entities (PTEs), BAP, and CCAP. After the consultations, the Commission, PTEs, BAP and CCAP agreed to implement the required migration on October 6, 2019," the NTC advisory read

Major telco firms PLDT and Globe Telecom have said that they will comply with the NTC directive to implement the landline number migration on October.

“We will make the necessary adjustments when it comes to our internal systems and communication efforts to ensure smooth service continuity for all of our affected customers. Our teams are continuously working closely with the NTC and other telcos to assist affected customers before, during, and after the migration,” Globe General Counsel Froilan Castelo said in a separate statement on Thursday.

From October 6 to January 5, Globe customers who will still incorrectly dial the old 7-digit number will hear a special announcement, saying the format has been changed to 8 digits. The company will continue reminding its customers on the upcoming migration in October through all available channels, including SMS, email, and social media.

Meanwhile, PLDT has advised its subscribers that it will be implementing the landline migration on October 6 in compliance with the order of the NTC.

NTC issued Memorandum Order No. 10-10-2017 on October 27, 2017, directing all telecommunications companies in the Philippines to migrate all customers within the area code 02 to 8-digit telephone numbers, from the existing 7 digits.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063958

Railway key to obtain GCR’s economic targets: PNR

Railways will play key role in obtaining economic targets once the proposed Greater Capital Region (GCR) pushes through, the Philippine National Railways (PNR) said on Wednesday.

"According to studies, the GCR to be an engine of growth should have its inhabitants living 55 minutes away to where they work. So knowing that, that is the objective of GCR, railway is a key to obtain those economic targets of the GCR and that’s where PNR comes in," PNR General Manager Junn B. Magno said in the weekly economic briefing in Malacañang.

Magno said the proposed GCR will be composed of the Greater Manila Area, Region 3 (Central Luzon) and Region 4-A or Calabarzon.

“That’s horizon project can take around 10 to 15 years to have that. Pero umpisahan na namin iyong studies ngayon (But we have to start now our studies),” Magno said.

He said the planned North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) would make travelling on the 150-kilometer GCR intercity faster with the ride lasting about 55 minutes.

"It will span from Calamba, through Parañaque, Makati, Manila, Caloocan, Valenzuela, Bulacan, Pampanga and Tarlac and especially the new developments in Clark, New Clark City and kung mayroon pang ma-develop na new business districts (if there will be future business districts to be developed)," he said on the planned railway.

He also mentioned the railway from Sucat, Paranaque to Matnog, Sorsogon which will lessen travel time to four hours.

"PNR is also embarking/rehabilitating its own right of way all the way to Sorsogon. Although we have serviced all the way lang to Legazpi, we are rehabilitating and creating a new line called South Long Haul," he said.

"Naga will just take three hours, it would compete with the airline services actually. And the new central station will be interconnected with NSCR and it will be located in the old power plant in Sucat," he added.

PNR earlier requested the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) for a feasibility study on the planned Cabanatuan-Makati Line or the North-East Commuter Line, as part of the process for getting the final nod on the project, aimed at improving transportation in the GCR. (PNA)

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063847

MRT-3 rehab work not delayed – DOTr

The rehabilitation of Metro Rail Transit line 3 (MRT-3) was not delayed as it pushed through as scheduled last month, an official of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Wednesday.

“The project is not delayed. Only the payment was delayed, because of the delay in the enactment of the national budget. Nevertheless, we are moving according to our timeline,” DOTr Assistant Secretary for Communications Goddes Hope Libiran said in a text message.

Libiran issued this statement after MRT-3 head of operations Michael Capati earlier said the rehabilitation of the line was moved to May this year as some documents still had to be completed.

“Sumitomo, in fact has been working with us since last year,” Libiran added.

Despite the delay on payments for the multi-billion project, the rehabilitation started in February, Libiran noted.

Capati, for his part, also clarified his earlier statement.

“There’s no delay in the project. There’s a delay on the budget and approval of (General Appropriations Act) 2019. We are working well with Sumitomo group and already made some transition plan,” he said in a text message.

The rehab work started with the line’s 72 coaches and will be undertaken by the Japanese consortium Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Corp. using the P18 billion loan from the Japanese government.

Rehabilitation of the line will also include the restoration and overhaul of the line’s power supply, overhead catenary system, signaling system, tracks, closed-circuit television camera and public address systems, as well as its elevators and escalators.  /muf

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1092653/mrt-3-rehab-work-not-delayed-dotr

MRT-3 rehab kickoff moved to May

The tentative start for the multi-billion rehabilitation work on Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT-3) was moved to May 2019, an official said on Wednesday.

Michael Capati, head of operations of MRT-3, said the start of the three-year rehabilitation was moved to May since some documents still had to be fixed.

“Tentative. Meron pa po inaayos na documents,” Capati said in a text message when asked for confirmation why the tentative start was moved to a later date.

The rehabilitation work was initially set to begin between the last week of January and the first week of February.

The rehab work will start with the 72 light rail vehicles (LRVs) that make up the entire MRT 3 fleet, and will be undertaken by the Japanese consortium Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Corp. using the P18-billion loan from the Japanese government.

Rehabilitation of the line will also include the restoration and overhaul of the line’s power supply, overhead catenary system, signaling system, tracks, closed-circuit television camera and public address systems, as well as its elevators and escalators. /cbb

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1092556/mrt-3-rehab-kickoff-moved-to-may

Cavite extension of LRT-1 to begin construction next month

THE construction of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) extension to Cavite is scheduled to begin next month, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) said.

“We are starting in April the actual construction of LRT-1 Cavite Extension connecting Baclaran and Bacoor, Cavite,” the DoTr said in a statement on Monday.

It said the target is to complete the project by the fourth quarter of 2021. Once the extension is up and running, passenger traffic on LRT-1 is expected to increase to 800,000 from the current 300,000.

The construction of the 11.7-kilometer LRT-1 Cavite extension is part of the government’s concession agreement with Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC), which has been operating the train line since September 2015.

LRMC is a joint venture of Ayala Corp., Metro Pacific Light Rail Corp. and Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) Pte. Ltd. Aside from the Cavite extension, its P65-billion, 32-year agreement with the government also involves the rehabilitation of the 21-kilometer LRT-1 line from Roosevelt, Quezon City to Baclaran, Parañaque City.

The Cavite extension will cover eight new stations from Baclaran: Redemptorist, NAIA Avenue, Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, Dr. Santos, Las Piñas, Zapote and Niog.

Metro Pacific Investments Corp. is one of three Philippine subsidiaries of Hong Kong’s First Pacific Co. Ltd., the others being PLDT, Inc. and Philex Mining Corp. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., maintains an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group. — Denise A. Valdez

https://www.bworldonline.com/cavite-extension-of-lrt-1-to-begin-construction-next-month/

LRT1 Cavite extension construction to begin April 2019

After years of delay, work on the Light Rail Transit Line 1 extension to Cavite will finally start

Three years behind schedule, the construction of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT1) Cavite extension will finally start in April, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Monday, March 4.

The DOTr said the 11.7-kilometer railway extension project is expected to be completed by the 4th quarter of 2021.

Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) took over the operations, maintenance, and extension of the LRT1 in September 2015, after bagging the P64.9-billion ($1.36-billion) LRT1 Cavite extension deal. (READ & WATCH: Engineers racing to fix LRT1)

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Cavite extension was held in May 2017. But the project faced right-of-way issues, delaying construction several times.

The Cavite extension will link with the existing system immediately south of the Baclaran Station, and run all the way to Niog, Cavite.

It is expected to cut travel time from Manila to Cavite to 25 minutes from over an hour, and would expand the current LRT1 capacity from 300,000 to 800,000 by the time it's completed.

LRMC is a consortium of Ayala Corporation, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, and the Macquarie Group.

https://www.rappler.com/business/224932-lrt1-cavite-extension-construction-begin-april-2019

LRT-1 Cavite Extension Construction Set In April

The construction of the extension of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) is set in April, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced.

“The actual construction of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension from Baclaran to Bacoor, Cavite will start in April,” the DOTr said in a statement on Monday.

The 11.7-kilometer railway extension project will have eight stations from Baclaran in Paranaque City to Bacoor in the province of Cavite.

The project will connect to the existing Baclaran station and will have eight new stations: Redemptorist, NAIA Avenue, Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, Dr. Santos, Las Pinas, Zapote, and Niog.

It is expected that travel from Baclaran to Bacoor would be reduced to 30 minutes from the current one and a half hours during rush hours.

The DOTr and the railway system’s private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation are eyeing to finish the project by fourth quarter of 2021.

The department estimates the daily passenger volume of the LRT-1 to increase from 300,000 to 800,000 once the extension is completed. (PNA)

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1063580

Construction of LRT1 Cavite extension to start in April

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Monday disclosed that the construction for the Light Rail Transit Line (LRT1) extension project to Bacoor, Cavite, would begin in April.

"Ito pong Abril na ito ay sa wakas mauumpisahan na po natin 'yung tinatawag nating actual works doon po sa extension ng LRT 1 patungong Cavite," said Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John Batan in an interview on Dobol B sa News TV.

"Matagal na po ito, madami na po tayong kababayan lalo 'yung galing Cavite, galing sa area na 'yun, na nagtatanong kung nasaan na ba 'yung extension ng LRT1," he added.

According to the DOTr, the LRT 1 Cavite extension project, which will connect to the existing Baclaran Station, is targeted to be completed in 2021.

The previous target of construction of the LRT1 Cavite extension was in mid-2018, but it was postponed to October of last year due to right-of-way issues.

The 11.7-kilometer extension project is expected to accommodate 410,000 passengers daily in its opening year and cut travel time from Parañaque to Bacoor from 90 minutes to 30 minutes on average. —Anna Felicia Bajo/KBK, GMA News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/686790/construction-of-lrt1-cavite-extension-to-start-in-april/story/

Konstruksyon ng LRT-1 Cavite extension, sisimulan na sa Abril

“The long wait is finally over”

Uumpisahan na sa Abril ang konstruksyon ng Light Rail Transit (LRT) line 1 extension patungong Bacoor, Cavite.

Ayon kay Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan – masisimulan na sa susunod na buwan ang actual works ng LRT extension.

Ang LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project, ay kokonektahin ang kasalukuyang Baclaran station hanggang sa Niog sa Bacoor, Cavite.

Ito ay isang 11.7 rail extension project na inaasahang makakapagserbisyo ng 410,000 na pasahero bawat araw.

Mapapabilis din ang biyahe mula Parañaque hanggang Bacoor mula 90 minutes ay magiging 30 minuto na lamang.

Inaasahang matatapos ang proyekto sa fourth quarter ng 2021.

https://rmn.ph/konstruksyon-ng-lrt-1-cavite-extension-sisimulan-na-sa-abril/

Govt told to use Metro Manila lands for socialized housing

The chairman of the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development said there are more than 3,000 hectares of land that could be used by the new Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) for socialized housing and urban development.

Negros Occidental Rep. Alfedo Benitez said these lands are located in Metro Manila.

“Three thousand plus hectares of land are all located in Metro Manila, and half of these are idle. The majority of these lands are owned by government centers in Quezon City,” Benitez told reporters.

Benitez said 1,234.85-hectare land is government-owned and currently being occupied by informal settler families (ISFs), while the 2,185-hectare public land is idle and ready for housing programs.

“[Under the law creating the DHSUD] the new housing department can now acquire all those government lands and facilitate the disposition of unused properties that are owned by the government for socialized housing. We need areas as the prime ingredient for successful housing program is land,” he said.

According to Benitez, housing needs of Filipinos could balloon to 6.8 million before President Duterte’s term ends in 2022. He said at least 1 million units should be constructed every year to address the country’s backlogs.

Joint effort

Benitez said the government can tap the help of private sector in addressing the country’s housing problems.

He said these lands or properties are “perfect sites” for government and private-sector socialized housing programs.

“The private sector can now participate through a joint venture and as co developer of certain properties,” he added.

Also, Benitez said the government should push through with its plan of transferring government offices to the provinces to spur development while addressing the country’s housing backlogs.

“Overpopulation, traffic congestion and high vulnerability to natural disasters have made Metro Manila or the National Capital Region a pariah among world cities,” he said.

“The Department of Transportation is already in Clark, all other departments’ administrative offices should also be relocated to decongest Metro Manila. That’s also the only way to develop the  countryside if we bring government outside the capital,” he added.

According to Benitez, it is only the government that can afford to go in an area that is not developed. He said medium-rise buildings could be constructed in the areas that will be vacated by these government agencies.

The lawmaker also stressed the need to rethink and develop a master plan that will decongest Metro Manila.

Benitez noted that several countries that relocated government agencies have flourished. These include South Korea, Malaysia and Brazil.

“Relocation of capitals has already been done by several countries. Malaysia, for instance, built a new administrative capital to ease decongestion in Kuala Lumpur. Putrajaya is envisioned to be ‘green’ and ‘intelligent’ city, with wide parks and open spaces, and strong ICT infrastructure. Its aesthetic design also shows distinct Islamic character to reflect Malaysian identity and heritage as predominantly Muslim country,” he said.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/03/04/govt-told-to-use-metro-manila-lands-for-socialized-housing/