AFTER two years of gathering dust at the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3’s depot, the controversial trains manufactured by CRRC Dalian Co. of China have finally been put to good use.
Transportation Undersecretary for Rail Timothy John R. Batan said his agency started on Sunday the gradual deployment of the 48 train coaches in the train line, after “an extensive, rigorous, and multilevel audit, assessment, adjustment and validation” of the light-rail vehicles (LRVs).
The Chinese manufacturer agreed to shoulder all costs to solve the issues raised in the independent safety audit and assessment conducted by German company TUV Rheinland.
Dalian started working on modifying the weight, signaling and maintenance equipment compatibility of the trains in July, with Japanese company Toshiba Infrastructure Systems supervising and evaluating the process to ensure that the Chinese company addressed issues raised.
Specialists from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Australia Aid, and local experts from the Philippine National Railways (PNR) also participated in the evaluation and validation.
“We have done a lot of assessments to ensure that these trains are safe. We have addressed all of the issues at no cost to the government,” Batan said.
So far, one train set—consisting of three coaches—has been deployed for commercial service. The 45 other cars are still undergoing assessment and validation procedures but will be “gradually deployed once cleared.”
To recall, the Aquino administration jump-started the acquisition of 48 new train cars for the Edsa line. It faced several years of delay due to a legal tussle with the owner of the train facility, MRT Corp.’s parent company, MRT Holdings Inc.
Despite having received the first set of trains in early-2016, the government deferred deployment of the new coaches because all 48 light-rail vehicles had to be “optimized and tested.”
Onboard signaling was amiss from the train, and was only procured midway through the construction of the 48 train units.
The onboard signaling system was only installed in the trains in November 2016. The initial batch of trains should have been deployed in March of the same year, based on original targets.
After these problems were settled, the transportation department wanted to deploy the 48 trains in March 2017; however, it failed to do so after groups raised issues on the train’s weight.
The whole expansion project, amounting to P3.8 billion, will increase the capacity of the line to 880,000 daily passengers from a rate capacity of 350,000 commuters per day.
Help from Japan
BATAN noted that solving this issue also paved the way for the tapping of Sumitomo and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the rehabilitation and maintenance of the 18-year-old line.
Since October 15, a Japanese contingency team from the two companies had been deployed to the train line for advance transition works.
“The problem with the MRT 3 is not just the lack of trains, but we also have problems on the old trains, the trails, old signaling systems and many others. We have a lot of issues to address, that is why we adopted a single point of responsibility policy, wherein one service provider will oversee everything,” Batan said.
Sumitomo and Mitsubishi designed and built the MRT 3 in 2000.
The new contract for the Japanese entities’ roles is included in the loan agreement between Tokyo and Manila that will be signed in “early-November,” ahead of the Philippines-Japan High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure and Economic Development in Manila next month.
Japan is extending a hand to help fix the train system through a P16.98-billion loan facility, which will be used to cover the railway line’s trains, power-supply system, overhead catenary system, radio system, CCTV system, public address system, signaling system, rail tracks,
road-rail vehicles, depot equipment, elevators and escalators, and other station building equipment. Tentatively, the whole deal will take about three-and-a- half years—31 months for the simultaneous rehabilitation and maintenance works to restore train system to its original design condition and capacity, and a year for the defect liability period.
For his part, Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade said his people are “working double time to fast-track improvements” to be done for the train line.
“We have no right to be exhausted,” he said.
Currently, the MRT 3 operates with 16 working trains daily, serving roughly 350,000 passengers per day. The government wants to increase this to 600,000 passengers daily.
https://businessmirror.com.ph/after-2-years-chinese-trains-used-for-mrt-3/
Monday, October 29, 2018
PHL, Japan to sign ODA deal for MRT rehabilitation in Nov.
THE Department of Transportation (DoTr) on Sunday said it is ready to sign an agreement with the Japanese government for the use of official development assistance (ODA) to fund the rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) following the initial roll out of new trains.
In a statement, the DoTr said it deployed on Saturday the first of 48 light rail vehicles (LRVs) procured from Chinese company CRRC Dalian Co. in 2014. It noted the other LRVs are still undergoing assessment and validation before being deployed.
After adding the new trains, next for the MRT-3 is the entry of a new maintenance provider and the P22.061-billion loan from Japan for its rehabilitation.
“Ang problema natin sa MRT-3 ay hindi lang ang kakulangan ng tren, na takdang tugunan ng dagdag na Dalian Trains. May problema rin sa lumang mga tren, sa riles, sa lumang signaling, at sa kung ano ano pa [The problem with the MRT-3 isn’t only about the lack of trains, which will be resolved by the Dalian trains. There is also a problem on old trains, rails, old signaling system, among others],” DoTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John R. Batan said in the statement.
The DoTr said the Exchange of Notes and Loan Agreement between the Philippines and Japan is scheduled for signing in early November, before the meeting of the Philippines-Japan High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure and Economic Development in Manila.
The deal between the Philippines and new MRT-3 maintenance provider Sumitomo Corp. and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (Sumitomo-MHI) is also targeted to be signed after the exchange of notes and loan agreement.
The DoTr said engineers from Sumitomo-MHI have started advance transition works on the MRT last Oct. 15.
Earlier this month, Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade told reporters issues on the Dalian trains were causing delay in the entry of Sumitomo-MHI as maintenance provider for the MRT-3.
Third party auditor TÜV Rheinland said it found issues on weight, signaling, and compatibility of maintenance equipment with the Dalian trains, hence the delay in its deployment. Manufacturer CRRC Dalian then agreed to make the necessary adjustments free of charge. — Denise A. Valdez
In a statement, the DoTr said it deployed on Saturday the first of 48 light rail vehicles (LRVs) procured from Chinese company CRRC Dalian Co. in 2014. It noted the other LRVs are still undergoing assessment and validation before being deployed.
After adding the new trains, next for the MRT-3 is the entry of a new maintenance provider and the P22.061-billion loan from Japan for its rehabilitation.
“Ang problema natin sa MRT-3 ay hindi lang ang kakulangan ng tren, na takdang tugunan ng dagdag na Dalian Trains. May problema rin sa lumang mga tren, sa riles, sa lumang signaling, at sa kung ano ano pa [The problem with the MRT-3 isn’t only about the lack of trains, which will be resolved by the Dalian trains. There is also a problem on old trains, rails, old signaling system, among others],” DoTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John R. Batan said in the statement.
The DoTr said the Exchange of Notes and Loan Agreement between the Philippines and Japan is scheduled for signing in early November, before the meeting of the Philippines-Japan High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure and Economic Development in Manila.
The deal between the Philippines and new MRT-3 maintenance provider Sumitomo Corp. and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (Sumitomo-MHI) is also targeted to be signed after the exchange of notes and loan agreement.
The DoTr said engineers from Sumitomo-MHI have started advance transition works on the MRT last Oct. 15.
Earlier this month, Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade told reporters issues on the Dalian trains were causing delay in the entry of Sumitomo-MHI as maintenance provider for the MRT-3.
Third party auditor TÜV Rheinland said it found issues on weight, signaling, and compatibility of maintenance equipment with the Dalian trains, hence the delay in its deployment. Manufacturer CRRC Dalian then agreed to make the necessary adjustments free of charge. — Denise A. Valdez
Saturday, September 22, 2018
C-5 South Link under way
Infrastructure giant Metro Pacific Investments Corp. said the first phase of its C-5 South Link Expressway project is on track and will be finished by March 2019, a statement showed.
The first phase is a 2.2-km section that will connect C-5 to Merville.
The entire project is a six-lane 7.7-km expressway that will run to the Manila Cavite Expressway (Cavitex) via Merville and Sucat. It is slated for completion in 2021.
Metro Pacific unit Cavitex Infrastructure Corp. (CIC), the concessionaire of Cavitex, said the project will cost around P10 billion. It is expected to benefit 50,000 vehicles by decongesting Sales Road in Pasay and Edsa when it starts commercial operations.
Moreover, travel time from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite to Taguig will be cut to 20 to 30 minutes from the usual one and a half hour drive with the direct access to C5.
“C-5 South Link is progressing as scheduled. When completed, the road will provide motorists from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite direct access to C-5. We also want to inform the public that by the end of September, we will be launching girders that will cross the at-grade portion of Skyway and South Luzon Expressway. This is a critical activity of the project and we expect substantial completion after the girders are installed,” Luigi Bautista, president and CEO of CIC, said in a statement.
Bautista noted that the construction of the expressway could cause added road congestion in the area.
“We would like to seek the understanding and patience of all motorists using the Skyway and SLEx between Nichols Toll Plaza and Bicutan. We as well advise them to plan their trips and look for alternative routes. Partial closure of Skyway and SLEx during off-peak hours is necessary when we position and install the girders,” he said.
Bautista explained that a so-called stop and go traffic system with 15 minute intervals will be introduced between 4 a.m. and 10 p.m. from Sept. 29 through Nov. 22.
“On-ground traffic support will be deployed to ensure motorists are assisted and guided. The completion of the launching should allow us to complete and open the Merville section of C-5 South Link by the end of March of 2019,” he added.
https://business.inquirer.net/257651/c-5-south-link-way
The first phase is a 2.2-km section that will connect C-5 to Merville.
The entire project is a six-lane 7.7-km expressway that will run to the Manila Cavite Expressway (Cavitex) via Merville and Sucat. It is slated for completion in 2021.
Metro Pacific unit Cavitex Infrastructure Corp. (CIC), the concessionaire of Cavitex, said the project will cost around P10 billion. It is expected to benefit 50,000 vehicles by decongesting Sales Road in Pasay and Edsa when it starts commercial operations.
Moreover, travel time from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite to Taguig will be cut to 20 to 30 minutes from the usual one and a half hour drive with the direct access to C5.
“C-5 South Link is progressing as scheduled. When completed, the road will provide motorists from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite direct access to C-5. We also want to inform the public that by the end of September, we will be launching girders that will cross the at-grade portion of Skyway and South Luzon Expressway. This is a critical activity of the project and we expect substantial completion after the girders are installed,” Luigi Bautista, president and CEO of CIC, said in a statement.
Bautista noted that the construction of the expressway could cause added road congestion in the area.
“We would like to seek the understanding and patience of all motorists using the Skyway and SLEx between Nichols Toll Plaza and Bicutan. We as well advise them to plan their trips and look for alternative routes. Partial closure of Skyway and SLEx during off-peak hours is necessary when we position and install the girders,” he said.
Bautista explained that a so-called stop and go traffic system with 15 minute intervals will be introduced between 4 a.m. and 10 p.m. from Sept. 29 through Nov. 22.
“On-ground traffic support will be deployed to ensure motorists are assisted and guided. The completion of the launching should allow us to complete and open the Merville section of C-5 South Link by the end of March of 2019,” he added.
https://business.inquirer.net/257651/c-5-south-link-way
C5 South Link of P10-B CAVITEX on track
By Emmie V. Abadilla
The construction of the first section of the P10 Billion Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEX), the 7.7 kilometer, six-lane C-5 South Link Expressway Project (C5 South Link), is on schedule, its concessionaire announced.
C5 South Link will seamlessly connect Circumferential Road 5 (C5) to CAVITEX via Merville and Sucat.
The first 2.2 km section, which connects C5 to Merville, is expected to be completed by the 1st quarter of 2019. Overall, the CAVITEX Project is expected to benefit 50,000 vehicles by decongesting Sales Road in Pasay and EDSA when it starts commercial operations.
Travel time from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite to Taguig will be cut to 20 to 30 minutes from the usual 1 and a half hour drive with the direct access to C5. “C5 South Link is progressing as scheduled,” confirmed Luigi Bautista, President and CEO of the Cavitex Infrastructure Corporation (CIC), the concessionaire of CAVITEX.
“When completed, the road will provide motorists from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite direct access to C5.” “We also want to inform the public that by the end of September, we will be launching girders that will cross the at-grade portion of Skyway and South Luzon Expressway,” he added.
“This is a critical activity of the Project and we expect substantial completion after the girders are installed.” This means that motorists using the Skyway and SLEX between Nichols Toll Plaza and Bicutan need to plan their trips and look for alternative routes.
https://business.mb.com.ph/2018/09/21/c5-south-link-of-p10-b-cavitex-on-track/
The construction of the first section of the P10 Billion Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEX), the 7.7 kilometer, six-lane C-5 South Link Expressway Project (C5 South Link), is on schedule, its concessionaire announced.
C5 South Link will seamlessly connect Circumferential Road 5 (C5) to CAVITEX via Merville and Sucat.
The first 2.2 km section, which connects C5 to Merville, is expected to be completed by the 1st quarter of 2019. Overall, the CAVITEX Project is expected to benefit 50,000 vehicles by decongesting Sales Road in Pasay and EDSA when it starts commercial operations.
Travel time from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite to Taguig will be cut to 20 to 30 minutes from the usual 1 and a half hour drive with the direct access to C5. “C5 South Link is progressing as scheduled,” confirmed Luigi Bautista, President and CEO of the Cavitex Infrastructure Corporation (CIC), the concessionaire of CAVITEX.
“When completed, the road will provide motorists from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite direct access to C5.” “We also want to inform the public that by the end of September, we will be launching girders that will cross the at-grade portion of Skyway and South Luzon Expressway,” he added.
“This is a critical activity of the Project and we expect substantial completion after the girders are installed.” This means that motorists using the Skyway and SLEX between Nichols Toll Plaza and Bicutan need to plan their trips and look for alternative routes.
https://business.mb.com.ph/2018/09/21/c5-south-link-of-p10-b-cavitex-on-track/
Partial closure of Skyway, SLEx scheduled due to C5 South Link construction
A stop-and-go traffic scheme will be implemented on the Skyway and South Luzon Expressway (SLEx) starting Sept. 29 until Nov. 22 for the construction of Circumferential Road 5 (C5) South Link Expressway, government concessionaire Metro Pacific group said.
In a statement released on Thursday, CAVITEX Infrastructure Corp. (CIC) of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) said the partial closure of the roads is necessary to complete the toll road project on schedule.
The stop-and-go traffic scheme will run daily from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. with 15-minute intervals. CIC President Luigi L. Bautista said traffic aides will assist motorists during the period.
“We would like to seek the understanding and patience of all motorists using the Skyway and SLEx between Nichols Toll Plaza and Bicutan. We as well advise them to plan their trips and look for alternative routes. Partial closure of Skyway and SLEX during off-peak hours is necessary when we position and install the girders,” Mr. Bautista said in the statement.
CIC is set to open the first 2.2 kilometers — near Merville, Parañaque — of the 7.7-kilometer C5 South Link Expressway by the end of March next year. The P10-billion toll road project will connect C5 to the Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEx).
Mr. Bautista said setting up the girders is a “critical activity” in the construction of the six-lane highway.
Once the C5 South Link is done, the project is expected to reduce travel time from Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Cavite to Taguig from the usual 90 minutes to 20-30 minutes. It is “expected to benefit some 50,000 cars by decongesting Sales Road in Pasay and EDSA when it starts commercial operations,” CIC said in the statement.
“C5 South Link is progressing as scheduled. When completed, the road will provide motorists from Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Cavite direct access to C5,” Mr. Bautista added.
CIC is a subsidiary of MPTC, the tollways unit of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC).
MPIC is one of three Philippine units of Hong Kong-based First Pacific Co. Ltd., others being PLDT, Inc. and Philex Mining Corp. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Denise A. Valdez
https://www.bworldonline.com/partial-closure-of-skyway-slex-scheduled-due-to-c5-south-link-construction/
In a statement released on Thursday, CAVITEX Infrastructure Corp. (CIC) of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) said the partial closure of the roads is necessary to complete the toll road project on schedule.
The stop-and-go traffic scheme will run daily from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. with 15-minute intervals. CIC President Luigi L. Bautista said traffic aides will assist motorists during the period.
“We would like to seek the understanding and patience of all motorists using the Skyway and SLEx between Nichols Toll Plaza and Bicutan. We as well advise them to plan their trips and look for alternative routes. Partial closure of Skyway and SLEX during off-peak hours is necessary when we position and install the girders,” Mr. Bautista said in the statement.
CIC is set to open the first 2.2 kilometers — near Merville, Parañaque — of the 7.7-kilometer C5 South Link Expressway by the end of March next year. The P10-billion toll road project will connect C5 to the Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEx).
Mr. Bautista said setting up the girders is a “critical activity” in the construction of the six-lane highway.
Once the C5 South Link is done, the project is expected to reduce travel time from Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Cavite to Taguig from the usual 90 minutes to 20-30 minutes. It is “expected to benefit some 50,000 cars by decongesting Sales Road in Pasay and EDSA when it starts commercial operations,” CIC said in the statement.
“C5 South Link is progressing as scheduled. When completed, the road will provide motorists from Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Cavite direct access to C5,” Mr. Bautista added.
CIC is a subsidiary of MPTC, the tollways unit of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC).
MPIC is one of three Philippine units of Hong Kong-based First Pacific Co. Ltd., others being PLDT, Inc. and Philex Mining Corp. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Denise A. Valdez
https://www.bworldonline.com/partial-closure-of-skyway-slex-scheduled-due-to-c5-south-link-construction/
MPTC to deliver first C5 South Link section by first quarter of 2019
Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), the road infrastructure arm of conglomerate Metro Pacific Investments Corp., is ready to deliver the first section of the P10-billion C5 South Link Expressway Project of the Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEX) by the first quarter of next year.
MPTC said construction of the first 2.2 kilometer (km) section, which connects C5 to Merville, is proceeding as scheduled and is eyed for completion within the first quarter of 2019.
In its entirety, the 7.7-kilometer, six-lane C5 South Link will seamlessly connect Circumferential Road 5 or C5 to CAVITEX via Merville and Sucat.
The project is expected to benefit 50,000 vehicles by decongesting Sales Road in Pasay and EDSA when it starts commercial operations.
Travel time from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite to Taguig will be cut to 20 to 30 minutes from the usual one and a half hour drive with the direct access to C5.
“C5 South Link is progressing as scheduled. When completed, the road will provide motorists from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite direct access to C5,” said Luigi Bautista, president and CEO of the Cavitex Infrastructure Corp., the concessionaire of CAVITEX.
“We also want to inform the public that by the end of September, we will be launching girders that will cross the at-grade portion of Skyway and South Luzon Expressway. This is a critical activity of the project and we expect substantial completion after the girders are installed,” he said.
Bautista said the company is seeking the understanding and patience of all motorists using the Skyway and SLEX between Nichols Toll Plaza and Bicutan and is advising them to plan their trips and look for alternative routes, as partial closure of Skyway and SLEX during off-peak hours is necessary when it positions and installs the girders.
“For the safety of the motorists and of our construction personnel, a stop-and-go traffic with 15 minute intervals will be implemented, between 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. from Sept. 29 to Nov. 22. On-ground traffic support will be deployed to ensure motorists are assisted and guided,” he said.
“We are working closely with MMDA, DOTR, DPWH and the Taguig, Pasay and Parañaque LGUs on the proposed traffic management plan. The completion of the launching should allow us to complete and open the Merville section of C5 South Link by the end of March of 2019,” Bautista said.
Aside from the CAVITEX, MPTC operates the North Luzon Expressway, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, and is currently constructing the Cavite-Laguna Expressway, the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway and soon, the Connector Road.
https://www.philstar.com/business/2018/09/22/1853479/mptc-deliver-first-c5-south-link-section-first-quarter-2019
MPTC said construction of the first 2.2 kilometer (km) section, which connects C5 to Merville, is proceeding as scheduled and is eyed for completion within the first quarter of 2019.
In its entirety, the 7.7-kilometer, six-lane C5 South Link will seamlessly connect Circumferential Road 5 or C5 to CAVITEX via Merville and Sucat.
The project is expected to benefit 50,000 vehicles by decongesting Sales Road in Pasay and EDSA when it starts commercial operations.
Travel time from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite to Taguig will be cut to 20 to 30 minutes from the usual one and a half hour drive with the direct access to C5.
“C5 South Link is progressing as scheduled. When completed, the road will provide motorists from Parañaque, Las Piñas and Cavite direct access to C5,” said Luigi Bautista, president and CEO of the Cavitex Infrastructure Corp., the concessionaire of CAVITEX.
“We also want to inform the public that by the end of September, we will be launching girders that will cross the at-grade portion of Skyway and South Luzon Expressway. This is a critical activity of the project and we expect substantial completion after the girders are installed,” he said.
Bautista said the company is seeking the understanding and patience of all motorists using the Skyway and SLEX between Nichols Toll Plaza and Bicutan and is advising them to plan their trips and look for alternative routes, as partial closure of Skyway and SLEX during off-peak hours is necessary when it positions and installs the girders.
“For the safety of the motorists and of our construction personnel, a stop-and-go traffic with 15 minute intervals will be implemented, between 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. from Sept. 29 to Nov. 22. On-ground traffic support will be deployed to ensure motorists are assisted and guided,” he said.
“We are working closely with MMDA, DOTR, DPWH and the Taguig, Pasay and Parañaque LGUs on the proposed traffic management plan. The completion of the launching should allow us to complete and open the Merville section of C5 South Link by the end of March of 2019,” Bautista said.
Aside from the CAVITEX, MPTC operates the North Luzon Expressway, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, and is currently constructing the Cavite-Laguna Expressway, the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway and soon, the Connector Road.
https://www.philstar.com/business/2018/09/22/1853479/mptc-deliver-first-c5-south-link-section-first-quarter-2019
Friday, September 21, 2018
Don't blame Duterte admin for penalties due to project delays —DOTr
By TED CORDERO, GMA News
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday said that the low spending of Official Development Assistance (ODA) and the delays on the implementation of foreign loan-funded projects flagged by the Commission on Audit (COA) were not incurred during the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
"We appreciate the vigilance of the COA, and it can be assured that the DOTr is not remiss on its duty to improve the state of transportation in the country," the agency said.
This came after COA said that the Duterte administration used only P299.75 million out of the P74.55 billion ODA loans received last year. The low utilization of ODA loans forced the government to pay "commitment fees," or penalties, worth more than P230.17 million for "delayed withdrawal/availment of loans."
The state auditor said ODA-funded projects of the DOTr were delayed, including:
"The DOTr is not slacking on the implementation of its projects, ODA-funded or otherwise. We have not been causing the delays. In fact, this administration is bearing the burden of catching up on delayed projects," it said.
"In fact, the DOTr has ordered a 24-hour construction schedule, and has successfully fast-tracked several projects that have been delayed for years."
In its statement, the DOTr gave updates on its projects mentioned in the COA report.
On the Puerto Princesa Airport Development Project, the Transportation department said it was already inaugurated May 4, 2017.
"Had there been delays, these did not happen during our time."
The Puerto Princesa Airport project was approved in 2011.
The New Bohol Airport in Panglao is now 94 percent complete and is scheduled to be inaugurated in November, the DOTr said.
"When we took over in July 2016, there was a slippage of around 50 percent and the completion rate was only at 6.48 percent."
The New Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management Systems Development Project has already been delayed for years before the Duterte administration came in, the DOTr said.
"The CNS/ATM was inaugurated in January 2018 and is now operational."
For the Light Rail Transit Line 1 Cavite Extension project, the agency said it has a long history of delays and was only during the administration that significant progress was made.
"The groundbreaking was held in May 2017, and since then, pre-construction activities have already taken place."
"Currently, the construction yard behind SM Sucat is already undergoing construction, while construction of the columns or piers will begin in January 2019. The Partially Operable sections (Baclaran – Dr. Santos) will be operational by the Q3 2021. Again, had there been delays, these did not happen during our time."
For the LRT Line 2 Masinag Extension, the DOTr said that the project was delayed due failed biddings on the construction of the station when the Duterte administration came in.
"Note that the project was divided into three contracts. We had to employ an efficient catch-up plan to keep it on track. Now, construction is ongoing. Stations are 56.8 percent complete, while the viaduct is 100 percent complete."
The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit System will proceed after the National Economic and Development Authority-Investment Coordination Committee has given its approval on the project as part of an integrated intermodal transport system for Metro Cebu.
For the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phases 1 and 2, the DOTr said the phase 1 involves the acquisition of ten 40-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRV) to enhance the capacity of the Philippine Coast Guard in coastal areas.
"As of 20 August 2018, all 10 MRRVs have been delivered and turned over by the Japanese government."
For the phase 2, which involves the acquisition of two 94-meter MRRVs to enhance the PCG’s response capability in offshore and coastal areas, the DOTr said it is now awaiting for the final contract for the consultancy. The timeline for the project is 2018 – 2024.
The Philippine Coast Guard Capability Development Project, which involves the acquisition of four 24-meter Fast Patrol Boats and one 82 meter Offshore Patrol Vessel from France, the DOTr said first 24-meter FPB was delivered in August, while the second was delivered in September.
"The delivery for the remaining FPBs will be completed in November. Meanwhile, the 82-meter vessel will be delivered in August 2019. There is no significant delay for this project." —JST, GMA News
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday said that the low spending of Official Development Assistance (ODA) and the delays on the implementation of foreign loan-funded projects flagged by the Commission on Audit (COA) were not incurred during the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
"We appreciate the vigilance of the COA, and it can be assured that the DOTr is not remiss on its duty to improve the state of transportation in the country," the agency said.
This came after COA said that the Duterte administration used only P299.75 million out of the P74.55 billion ODA loans received last year. The low utilization of ODA loans forced the government to pay "commitment fees," or penalties, worth more than P230.17 million for "delayed withdrawal/availment of loans."
The state auditor said ODA-funded projects of the DOTr were delayed, including:
- Light Rail Transit Line 1 Cavite Extension
- LRT Line 2 Masinag Extension
- Puerto Prinsesa Airport Development Project
- New Bohol Airport Construction and Sustainable Environment Protection Project
- New Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management Systems Development Project
- Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phases 1 and 2
- Cebu Bus Rapid Transit System
- Philippine Coast Guard Capability Development Project
"The DOTr is not slacking on the implementation of its projects, ODA-funded or otherwise. We have not been causing the delays. In fact, this administration is bearing the burden of catching up on delayed projects," it said.
"In fact, the DOTr has ordered a 24-hour construction schedule, and has successfully fast-tracked several projects that have been delayed for years."
In its statement, the DOTr gave updates on its projects mentioned in the COA report.
On the Puerto Princesa Airport Development Project, the Transportation department said it was already inaugurated May 4, 2017.
"Had there been delays, these did not happen during our time."
The Puerto Princesa Airport project was approved in 2011.
The New Bohol Airport in Panglao is now 94 percent complete and is scheduled to be inaugurated in November, the DOTr said.
"When we took over in July 2016, there was a slippage of around 50 percent and the completion rate was only at 6.48 percent."
The New Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management Systems Development Project has already been delayed for years before the Duterte administration came in, the DOTr said.
"The CNS/ATM was inaugurated in January 2018 and is now operational."
For the Light Rail Transit Line 1 Cavite Extension project, the agency said it has a long history of delays and was only during the administration that significant progress was made.
"The groundbreaking was held in May 2017, and since then, pre-construction activities have already taken place."
"Currently, the construction yard behind SM Sucat is already undergoing construction, while construction of the columns or piers will begin in January 2019. The Partially Operable sections (Baclaran – Dr. Santos) will be operational by the Q3 2021. Again, had there been delays, these did not happen during our time."
For the LRT Line 2 Masinag Extension, the DOTr said that the project was delayed due failed biddings on the construction of the station when the Duterte administration came in.
"Note that the project was divided into three contracts. We had to employ an efficient catch-up plan to keep it on track. Now, construction is ongoing. Stations are 56.8 percent complete, while the viaduct is 100 percent complete."
The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit System will proceed after the National Economic and Development Authority-Investment Coordination Committee has given its approval on the project as part of an integrated intermodal transport system for Metro Cebu.
For the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phases 1 and 2, the DOTr said the phase 1 involves the acquisition of ten 40-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRV) to enhance the capacity of the Philippine Coast Guard in coastal areas.
"As of 20 August 2018, all 10 MRRVs have been delivered and turned over by the Japanese government."
For the phase 2, which involves the acquisition of two 94-meter MRRVs to enhance the PCG’s response capability in offshore and coastal areas, the DOTr said it is now awaiting for the final contract for the consultancy. The timeline for the project is 2018 – 2024.
The Philippine Coast Guard Capability Development Project, which involves the acquisition of four 24-meter Fast Patrol Boats and one 82 meter Offshore Patrol Vessel from France, the DOTr said first 24-meter FPB was delivered in August, while the second was delivered in September.
"The delivery for the remaining FPBs will be completed in November. Meanwhile, the 82-meter vessel will be delivered in August 2019. There is no significant delay for this project." —JST, GMA News
LRT-1 ridership reaches 14-M in August
Over 14 million people rode the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) last August, its highest ridership in a single month to date, according to its operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC).
Passenger volume was recorded at 14.6 million passengers which has higher by 8 percent to 13.45 million passengers for the same month last year due to improvements which resulted to increased number of trains and reduced waiting time of passengers.
To date, the train rehabilitation program of the LRMC has resulted to the increase in the number of car trains by 112 from 77 in 2015 and 530 daily trips in 2017 from 478 trips per day in 2016.
“The ridership growth is a manifestation of stronger customer preference for LRT-1 over other modes of transportation. It is a significant achievement for our employees who have focused on increasing the number of trains and trips, reducing queueing time and travel time, as well as improving the safety, security and cleanliness of the stations,” according to LRMC President and Chief Executive Officer Juan Alfonso.
The company is asking for a fare increase of PHP 5 to recover the investments it has made to improve the railway operations and to finance the construction of the extension of the LRT-1 from Baclaran to Bacoor, Cavite.
The fare increase will encourage banks to provide lending for the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project according to the LRMC.
“A PHP 5 increase in LRT-1 fare will assure the construction of its extension to Sucat, Las Piñas and Bacoor, allowing at least 300,000 of residents each day to get to and from home in just minutes from Baclaran without traffic,” Alfonso said in an earlier statement.
According to the LRMC, its concession agreement with the government stipulates a 5 percent increase on LRT fares every two years and the extension of the railway line from Baclaran to Bacoor.
Current fares on the LRT-1 is PHP 15, PHP 20 and PHP 30 depending on distance travelled. No fare hike has been implemented since September 2015.
The fare hike petition is currently pending before the Department of Transportation.
The LRMC is eyeing to start the construction of the first phase of the LRT-1 Extension project which covers the Redemptorist, Manila International Airport (MIA), Asiaworld, Ninoy Aquino, and Dr. A. Santos stations on October.
The LRT-1 extension is projected to reduce travel time from Baclaran to Bacoor by 30 minutes from the current one and a half hours during rush hours.
It will consist of eight new stations namely Redemptorist, NAIA Avenue, Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, Dr. Santos, Las Pinas, Zapote, and Niog, which are expected to serve around 700,000 to 800,000 passengers once it is completed by 2021.
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 in September 2015.
https://www.ptvnews.ph/lrt-1-ridership-reaches-14-m-in-august/
Passenger volume was recorded at 14.6 million passengers which has higher by 8 percent to 13.45 million passengers for the same month last year due to improvements which resulted to increased number of trains and reduced waiting time of passengers.
To date, the train rehabilitation program of the LRMC has resulted to the increase in the number of car trains by 112 from 77 in 2015 and 530 daily trips in 2017 from 478 trips per day in 2016.
“The ridership growth is a manifestation of stronger customer preference for LRT-1 over other modes of transportation. It is a significant achievement for our employees who have focused on increasing the number of trains and trips, reducing queueing time and travel time, as well as improving the safety, security and cleanliness of the stations,” according to LRMC President and Chief Executive Officer Juan Alfonso.
The company is asking for a fare increase of PHP 5 to recover the investments it has made to improve the railway operations and to finance the construction of the extension of the LRT-1 from Baclaran to Bacoor, Cavite.
The fare increase will encourage banks to provide lending for the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project according to the LRMC.
“A PHP 5 increase in LRT-1 fare will assure the construction of its extension to Sucat, Las Piñas and Bacoor, allowing at least 300,000 of residents each day to get to and from home in just minutes from Baclaran without traffic,” Alfonso said in an earlier statement.
According to the LRMC, its concession agreement with the government stipulates a 5 percent increase on LRT fares every two years and the extension of the railway line from Baclaran to Bacoor.
Current fares on the LRT-1 is PHP 15, PHP 20 and PHP 30 depending on distance travelled. No fare hike has been implemented since September 2015.
The fare hike petition is currently pending before the Department of Transportation.
The LRMC is eyeing to start the construction of the first phase of the LRT-1 Extension project which covers the Redemptorist, Manila International Airport (MIA), Asiaworld, Ninoy Aquino, and Dr. A. Santos stations on October.
The LRT-1 extension is projected to reduce travel time from Baclaran to Bacoor by 30 minutes from the current one and a half hours during rush hours.
It will consist of eight new stations namely Redemptorist, NAIA Avenue, Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, Dr. Santos, Las Pinas, Zapote, and Niog, which are expected to serve around 700,000 to 800,000 passengers once it is completed by 2021.
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 in September 2015.
https://www.ptvnews.ph/lrt-1-ridership-reaches-14-m-in-august/
Thursday, September 20, 2018
DOTr refutes 2017 COA report: No projects delayed under Tugade’s watch
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday refuted a 2017 Commission on Audit (COA) report stating that its projects are delayed and that it is underspending on infrastructure projects. It insisted that there were no delays under Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade’s administration.
“We would like to state categorically that the delays in implementation, which cost the government P299.75 million in commitment fees, were not accumulated during our administration. In fact, the DOTr has ordered a 24-hour construction schedule, and has successfully fast-tracked several projects that have been delayed for years,” the DOTr said in a statement.
The department said the construction of the new Bohol Airport and Sustainable Environment Protection Project, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 Cavite Extension, and LRT Line 2 Masinag Extension are ongoing.
Moreover, the Puerto Princesa Airport Development Project was only inaugurated in 2017 and the delay did not happen under Tugade’s watch.
Meanwhile, the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit System was already approved by the National Economic and Development Authority – Investment Coordination Committee during Tugade’s administration while the New Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management Systems Development Project were being prioritized by Tugade.
The Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phases 1 and 2 have obtained 12 multi-role response vehicles while the Philippine Coast Guard Capability Development Project received five patrol boats from France.
The DOTr lamented that they are burdened by the delayed projects of the past administration.
“The DOTr is not slacking on the implementation of its projects, ODA-funded or otherwise. We have not been causing the delays. In fact, this administration is bearing the burden of catching up on delayed projects,” DOTr said. /ee
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1034643/dotr-refutes-2017-coa-report-no-projects-delayed-under-tugades-watch
“We would like to state categorically that the delays in implementation, which cost the government P299.75 million in commitment fees, were not accumulated during our administration. In fact, the DOTr has ordered a 24-hour construction schedule, and has successfully fast-tracked several projects that have been delayed for years,” the DOTr said in a statement.
The department said the construction of the new Bohol Airport and Sustainable Environment Protection Project, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 Cavite Extension, and LRT Line 2 Masinag Extension are ongoing.
Moreover, the Puerto Princesa Airport Development Project was only inaugurated in 2017 and the delay did not happen under Tugade’s watch.
Meanwhile, the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit System was already approved by the National Economic and Development Authority – Investment Coordination Committee during Tugade’s administration while the New Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management Systems Development Project were being prioritized by Tugade.
The Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phases 1 and 2 have obtained 12 multi-role response vehicles while the Philippine Coast Guard Capability Development Project received five patrol boats from France.
The DOTr lamented that they are burdened by the delayed projects of the past administration.
“The DOTr is not slacking on the implementation of its projects, ODA-funded or otherwise. We have not been causing the delays. In fact, this administration is bearing the burden of catching up on delayed projects,” DOTr said. /ee
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1034643/dotr-refutes-2017-coa-report-no-projects-delayed-under-tugades-watch
Quezon Ave., Cebu BRT get DoTr nod
The Department of Transportation on Wednesday said it would be proceeding with the implementation of two out of three Bus Rapid Transit systems—the Cebu BRT system and the Quezon Avenue BRT system.
DoTr Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark de Leon bared this following a recent inspection of both BRT systems’ routes with representatives from the DoTr, the National Economic and Development Authority, and the World Bank— which funds the project.
“The Bus Rapid Transit project of DoTr for Cebu and Quezon Avenue will push through,” De Leon told a press briefing in Malacañang.
“We conducted an inspection with World Bank team and also joined by NEDA, and evaluated conditions of the corridor of Cebu and also Quezon Avenue and we found it is possible to run the BRT in these corridors,” he added.
However, De Leon said the EDSA BRT system was “still undergoing evaluation “after its supposed funder backed out of the project.
“We’re undergoing evaluation of the BRT in EDSA,” De Leon said.
“The other two will push through because they have a different funder, it’s under World Bank,” he added.
De Leon said the DoTr had signed the contract for the technical service consultants for the Cebu BRT and had written the Department of Finance about its intention to proceed with the Quezon Avenue BRT.
“We just signed the contract for the TSC in Cebu so we’re already pushing for the BRT to push through. For Manila, we have signed a letter to DoF that we will push through with the program,” De Leon said.
Meanwhile, the agency is now working on the detailed engineering design of both BRT systems.
Last July, DoTr Secretary Arthur Tugade bared that only the implementation of the Cebu BRT would push through, considering Metro Cebu’s road profile and the need for efficient mass transport systems in interconnected cities.
The Cebu BRT is a 23-kilometer system, which will run through Bulacao, Ayala, and Talamban.
Two Metro Manila BTRs—Quezon Avenue and EDSA—were earlier scrapped since the DoTr considered it unfeasible on narrow and congested roads in urban areas.
The Quezon Avenue BRT will run 12.3 km from the Quezon Memorial Circle to Manila City Hall via Elliptical Road, Quezon Avenue and España Boulevard.
Meanwhile, the EDSA BRT will run 48.6 km and will have four main corridors—a main line along Edsa and corridors along Ayala Avenue to World Trade Center, Ortigas to Bonifacio Global City, and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
The BRT systems are part of the DoTr’s integrated transportation system, one of the solutions to ease traffic. It dedicates lanes for specialized buses and stations.
It is estimated to cost P53 billion.
http://www.manilastandard.net/news/national/275947/quezon-ave-cebu-brt-get-dotr-nod.html
DoTr Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark de Leon bared this following a recent inspection of both BRT systems’ routes with representatives from the DoTr, the National Economic and Development Authority, and the World Bank— which funds the project.
“The Bus Rapid Transit project of DoTr for Cebu and Quezon Avenue will push through,” De Leon told a press briefing in Malacañang.
“We conducted an inspection with World Bank team and also joined by NEDA, and evaluated conditions of the corridor of Cebu and also Quezon Avenue and we found it is possible to run the BRT in these corridors,” he added.
However, De Leon said the EDSA BRT system was “still undergoing evaluation “after its supposed funder backed out of the project.
“We’re undergoing evaluation of the BRT in EDSA,” De Leon said.
“The other two will push through because they have a different funder, it’s under World Bank,” he added.
De Leon said the DoTr had signed the contract for the technical service consultants for the Cebu BRT and had written the Department of Finance about its intention to proceed with the Quezon Avenue BRT.
“We just signed the contract for the TSC in Cebu so we’re already pushing for the BRT to push through. For Manila, we have signed a letter to DoF that we will push through with the program,” De Leon said.
Meanwhile, the agency is now working on the detailed engineering design of both BRT systems.
Last July, DoTr Secretary Arthur Tugade bared that only the implementation of the Cebu BRT would push through, considering Metro Cebu’s road profile and the need for efficient mass transport systems in interconnected cities.
The Cebu BRT is a 23-kilometer system, which will run through Bulacao, Ayala, and Talamban.
Two Metro Manila BTRs—Quezon Avenue and EDSA—were earlier scrapped since the DoTr considered it unfeasible on narrow and congested roads in urban areas.
The Quezon Avenue BRT will run 12.3 km from the Quezon Memorial Circle to Manila City Hall via Elliptical Road, Quezon Avenue and España Boulevard.
Meanwhile, the EDSA BRT will run 48.6 km and will have four main corridors—a main line along Edsa and corridors along Ayala Avenue to World Trade Center, Ortigas to Bonifacio Global City, and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
The BRT systems are part of the DoTr’s integrated transportation system, one of the solutions to ease traffic. It dedicates lanes for specialized buses and stations.
It is estimated to cost P53 billion.
http://www.manilastandard.net/news/national/275947/quezon-ave-cebu-brt-get-dotr-nod.html
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