Monday, September 23, 2019
Friday, September 20, 2019
PNR extends train trips to Los Baños
SAN PEDRO CITY—The Philippine National Railways (PNR) has started test runs and clearing operations this week as it prepares for the opening next month of its south rail line to the university town of Los Baños in Laguna province.
The Los Baños station will be the 25th station of the Metro South Commuter Train that runs from Tutuban in Manila to Calamba City, also in Laguna.
Joseline Geronimo, PNR spokesperson, said two of the nine trains that the PNR purchased from the state-owned Indonesian firm PT Industri Kereta Api (PT Inka) were scheduled to arrive early next month in time for the scheduled launch of the new station.
Commuters from Los Baños, where the University of the Philippines maintains a campus, were ecstatic to see a train on trial run on Wednesday.
Resident Jeremy Deanon said train services would help ease problems in public transportation from Laguna to Metro Manila.
Geronimo said another round of inspection by PNR engineers to check the existing tracks and facilities would continue on Friday.
Danger zone
But the 65-kilometer test run from Manila up to that part of the railway in front of the International Rice Research Institute in Los Baños was not one without a hitch.
Geronimo said the PNR train, which can carry 83 passengers and used only for inspections, returned with “scratches” caused by some structures encroaching on the tracks.
The PNR’s primary concern, she said, is to clear illegally built structures and informal settlers along the railway.
Geronimo said the tracks should be clear of any structure 15 meters on each side to ensure safety. For now, the PNR said it would clear those inside the “danger zone” or the structures within 6 m on each side of the railway.
“We understand that we cannot just simply drive away [these families] so [clearing would be] at least for those within the danger zone,” she said in a telephone interview on Thursday.
Relocation
Geronimo said the PNR had long been coordinating with the National Housing Authority for the relocation of settlers along the tracks.
“Our concern is their safety and this [project] is for everybody’s mobility,” she said.
The PNR, in 2014, reopened the Calamba station as the government announced its bid to revive sections of the 478-km south rail that extends to Bicol region.
The more than a century-old PNR system is the oldest in Southeast Asia.
Last year, the PNR purchased six diesel multiple unit trains (P1.071 billion each) and three diesel hydraulic locomotive trains (P1.3 billion each) from PT Inka.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1166894/pnr-extends-train-trips-to-los-banos
The Los Baños station will be the 25th station of the Metro South Commuter Train that runs from Tutuban in Manila to Calamba City, also in Laguna.
Joseline Geronimo, PNR spokesperson, said two of the nine trains that the PNR purchased from the state-owned Indonesian firm PT Industri Kereta Api (PT Inka) were scheduled to arrive early next month in time for the scheduled launch of the new station.
Commuters from Los Baños, where the University of the Philippines maintains a campus, were ecstatic to see a train on trial run on Wednesday.
Resident Jeremy Deanon said train services would help ease problems in public transportation from Laguna to Metro Manila.
Geronimo said another round of inspection by PNR engineers to check the existing tracks and facilities would continue on Friday.
Danger zone
But the 65-kilometer test run from Manila up to that part of the railway in front of the International Rice Research Institute in Los Baños was not one without a hitch.
Geronimo said the PNR train, which can carry 83 passengers and used only for inspections, returned with “scratches” caused by some structures encroaching on the tracks.
The PNR’s primary concern, she said, is to clear illegally built structures and informal settlers along the railway.
Geronimo said the tracks should be clear of any structure 15 meters on each side to ensure safety. For now, the PNR said it would clear those inside the “danger zone” or the structures within 6 m on each side of the railway.
“We understand that we cannot just simply drive away [these families] so [clearing would be] at least for those within the danger zone,” she said in a telephone interview on Thursday.
Relocation
Geronimo said the PNR had long been coordinating with the National Housing Authority for the relocation of settlers along the tracks.
“Our concern is their safety and this [project] is for everybody’s mobility,” she said.
The PNR, in 2014, reopened the Calamba station as the government announced its bid to revive sections of the 478-km south rail that extends to Bicol region.
The more than a century-old PNR system is the oldest in Southeast Asia.
Last year, the PNR purchased six diesel multiple unit trains (P1.071 billion each) and three diesel hydraulic locomotive trains (P1.3 billion each) from PT Inka.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1166894/pnr-extends-train-trips-to-los-banos
Thursday, September 19, 2019
Overhaul overdue: Daily maintenance fails to prevent MRT3 short circuit
A joint investigation by Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, DOTr, and MRT management shows what caused the September 6 stoppage of the trains
The cut overhead catenary cable that halted the operations of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3) last September 6 was due to a mechanical failure that train preparation and daily maintenance failed to prevent.
A joint investigation into the September 6 incident conducted by MRT3 maintenance provider Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Department of Transportation (DOTr)-MRT3, and the chief engineering division revealed that a short circuit was caused by the train's electrical box.
Because the protection and control unit (PCU) of the train's power substation was also defective, it failed to cut off the 750-bolt line in time, causing the overhead catenary cable to be cut.
According to MRT3 Director for Operations Michael Capati, trains undergo daily train preparation and preventive maintenance before being deployed on the rails. The preventive maintenance program is done daily, weekly, and monthly.
However, the degradation of rails mean that preventive measures fall short in accounting for possible failures while the trains are running.
In this regard, Capati said that trains, along with rails, are overdue for full rehabilitation and general overhaul, which the DOTr-MRT3 is addressing through its comprehensive rehabilitation, which is set to be completed in July 2021.
Replacement of all PCUs is also included in the whole rehabilitation program of the MRT3.
To curb reoccurrences of similar incidents, Capati said that, aside from upgrading PCUs, they will also be doubling the number of their foot patrol technicians that check trains visually for defects. Further, they will also increase maintenance personnel with the support of Sumitomo.
The suspension of operations last September 6 affected 7,302 passengers.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/240545-mrt3-daily-maintenance-failed-prevent-cut-cable-incident
The cut overhead catenary cable that halted the operations of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3) last September 6 was due to a mechanical failure that train preparation and daily maintenance failed to prevent.
A joint investigation into the September 6 incident conducted by MRT3 maintenance provider Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Department of Transportation (DOTr)-MRT3, and the chief engineering division revealed that a short circuit was caused by the train's electrical box.
Because the protection and control unit (PCU) of the train's power substation was also defective, it failed to cut off the 750-bolt line in time, causing the overhead catenary cable to be cut.
According to MRT3 Director for Operations Michael Capati, trains undergo daily train preparation and preventive maintenance before being deployed on the rails. The preventive maintenance program is done daily, weekly, and monthly.
However, the degradation of rails mean that preventive measures fall short in accounting for possible failures while the trains are running.
In this regard, Capati said that trains, along with rails, are overdue for full rehabilitation and general overhaul, which the DOTr-MRT3 is addressing through its comprehensive rehabilitation, which is set to be completed in July 2021.
Replacement of all PCUs is also included in the whole rehabilitation program of the MRT3.
To curb reoccurrences of similar incidents, Capati said that, aside from upgrading PCUs, they will also be doubling the number of their foot patrol technicians that check trains visually for defects. Further, they will also increase maintenance personnel with the support of Sumitomo.
The suspension of operations last September 6 affected 7,302 passengers.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/240545-mrt3-daily-maintenance-failed-prevent-cut-cable-incident
MRT-3 rehab on track to achieve total completion in July 2021 —rail official
The total rehabilitation of all components and systems of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) is on track to be completed in July 2021, a top official of the mass rail transit system said Thursday.
In fact, the rehabilitation works are moving ahead of schedule, MRT-3 director Mike Capati said in a press conference in Quezon City.
Japanese service providers Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries started working on the MRT-3 last May.
“‘Yun pong maintenance rehabilitation ng ating mga riles dapat ho ‘yan first quarter of next year, magi-istart na po tayo ng November,” Capati noted.
“Meaning to say advanced po ang mga projections na nache-check namin. Ang delivery po ng spare parts are coming in ahead of time,” Capati noted.
The 4,053 new rails of 18-meter length to replace MRT-3’s old rails arrived from Japan in July, and more rails are scheduled for delivery in October.
The Department of Transportation earlier said that the new rails were to arrive two to three months ahead of schedule, keeping the 26-month rehabilitation on track by July 2021.
“Pakiusap namin sa publiko na hindi po kasi 24 hours kayang i-rehab ang buong sistema ng MRT-3. Ang target po namin diyan ay 26 months, we’re down to 22 months na,” Capati said.
“By July 2021, assured tayo na lahat ng po ng components at system ng MRT-3 ay fully rehabilitated na,” he said.
Sumitomo officially started the rehabilitation and maintenance works in May this year.
The total cost of the MRT-3 rehabilitation is P21.96 billion, of which P18.76 billion is official development assistance loan from JICA. The balance of P3.19 billion is funded locally.
The P18.76-billion loan agreement for the project was signed by the Philippine government and Japan International Cooperation Agency in November 2018.
Roughly ¥38 billion, the loan carries an interest rate of 0.1 percent per year with a repayment period of 28 years after a grace period of 12 years.
The Rehabilitation and Maintenance Agreement with the DOTr was signed in December 28, 2018.
The contract covers the electromechanical components, power supply, rail tracks, depot equipment, and overhaul of its 72 light rail vehicles.
Once rehabilitated, the MRT-3 is expected to return to its high-grade condition.
The number of operating train sets will be elevated from 15 to 20 at peak hours, and the trains’ operating speed will be doubled to 60 kilometers per hour—slashing the time intervals between trains from 7 to 10 minutes to 3.5 minutes. —VDS, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/708639/mrt-3-rehab-on-track-to-achieve-total-completion-in-july-2021-rail-official/story/
In fact, the rehabilitation works are moving ahead of schedule, MRT-3 director Mike Capati said in a press conference in Quezon City.
Japanese service providers Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries started working on the MRT-3 last May.
“‘Yun pong maintenance rehabilitation ng ating mga riles dapat ho ‘yan first quarter of next year, magi-istart na po tayo ng November,” Capati noted.
“Meaning to say advanced po ang mga projections na nache-check namin. Ang delivery po ng spare parts are coming in ahead of time,” Capati noted.
The 4,053 new rails of 18-meter length to replace MRT-3’s old rails arrived from Japan in July, and more rails are scheduled for delivery in October.
The Department of Transportation earlier said that the new rails were to arrive two to three months ahead of schedule, keeping the 26-month rehabilitation on track by July 2021.
“Pakiusap namin sa publiko na hindi po kasi 24 hours kayang i-rehab ang buong sistema ng MRT-3. Ang target po namin diyan ay 26 months, we’re down to 22 months na,” Capati said.
“By July 2021, assured tayo na lahat ng po ng components at system ng MRT-3 ay fully rehabilitated na,” he said.
Sumitomo officially started the rehabilitation and maintenance works in May this year.
The total cost of the MRT-3 rehabilitation is P21.96 billion, of which P18.76 billion is official development assistance loan from JICA. The balance of P3.19 billion is funded locally.
The P18.76-billion loan agreement for the project was signed by the Philippine government and Japan International Cooperation Agency in November 2018.
Roughly ¥38 billion, the loan carries an interest rate of 0.1 percent per year with a repayment period of 28 years after a grace period of 12 years.
The Rehabilitation and Maintenance Agreement with the DOTr was signed in December 28, 2018.
The contract covers the electromechanical components, power supply, rail tracks, depot equipment, and overhaul of its 72 light rail vehicles.
Once rehabilitated, the MRT-3 is expected to return to its high-grade condition.
The number of operating train sets will be elevated from 15 to 20 at peak hours, and the trains’ operating speed will be doubled to 60 kilometers per hour—slashing the time intervals between trains from 7 to 10 minutes to 3.5 minutes. —VDS, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/708639/mrt-3-rehab-on-track-to-achieve-total-completion-in-july-2021-rail-official/story/
MRT-3 bent on making 3 Dalian train sets operational this September
The management of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) is bent on inserting into the system at least three sets of trains acquired from China-based CRRC Dalian Co. Ltd. this month.
“We are doing our best to make sure na ma-insert namin ang Dalian, hopefully this month,” MRT-3 director Mike Capati said in a press conference in Quezon City on Thursday.
The mass rail transit system is now waiting for the go signal from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Japanese maintenance provider Sumitomo.
“Meron ng communication doon but I’m not privy to disclose because it is a top management issue pero kami po ay ready once na sabihan kami,” Capati said.
“We have already accepted three train sets. Given a few days’ notice, we can readily insert it … at saka ang ating provider Sumitomo agrees on whatever conditions they have.”
In 2016, Dalian delivered 48 trains that were purchased by the Aquino administration but were never put to use because the trains were incompatible with MRT system and “overweight.”
“Malaking tulong 'pag nailabas namin ang Dalian,” Capati said.
The train sets can serve at least 10,000 to 20,000 passengers a day.
“We are working on that, ‘di ko lang kayo mabigyan ng konkretong detalye pa kasi I’m still waiting for the go-signal,” Capati noted. —VDS, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/708618/mrt-3-bent-on-making-3-dalian-train-sets-operational-this-september/story/
“We are doing our best to make sure na ma-insert namin ang Dalian, hopefully this month,” MRT-3 director Mike Capati said in a press conference in Quezon City on Thursday.
The mass rail transit system is now waiting for the go signal from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Japanese maintenance provider Sumitomo.
“Meron ng communication doon but I’m not privy to disclose because it is a top management issue pero kami po ay ready once na sabihan kami,” Capati said.
“We have already accepted three train sets. Given a few days’ notice, we can readily insert it … at saka ang ating provider Sumitomo agrees on whatever conditions they have.”
In 2016, Dalian delivered 48 trains that were purchased by the Aquino administration but were never put to use because the trains were incompatible with MRT system and “overweight.”
“Malaking tulong 'pag nailabas namin ang Dalian,” Capati said.
The train sets can serve at least 10,000 to 20,000 passengers a day.
“We are working on that, ‘di ko lang kayo mabigyan ng konkretong detalye pa kasi I’m still waiting for the go-signal,” Capati noted. —VDS, GMA News
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/companies/708618/mrt-3-bent-on-making-3-dalian-train-sets-operational-this-september/story/
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
DOTr, San Miguel ink construction deal for Manila International Airport
Groundbreaking for the new airport is set for December
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) signed a contract for the $15-billion Manila International Airport on Wednesday, September 18, bringing the building of an alternative to the congested Ninoy International Airport (NAIA) one step closer.
The construction will be fully funded by private equity, with no government guarantee or subsidy. The 50-year concession agreement also puts SMC in charge of the airport's operations and maintenance.
During the bidding in July, no other firms challenged SMC's proposal.
The airport will be constructed on a 2,400-hectare property in Bulakan, Bulacan, allotting space for 4 runways, 8 taxiways, and 3 passenger terminals.
SMC President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon Ang said the airport was designed this way to allow for flights to land and take off simultaneously.
DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade said that the addition of this airport to the NAIA and the Clark International Airport will make way for “commercial competitiveness” and contribute to the public’s freedom of choice in traveling.
The airport is expected to accommodate 100 million passengers per year, going up to 200 million if it is upgraded to have 6 runways.
During the concession agreement signing, Tugade also announced he had signed the Notice to Proceed, allowing SMC to begin construction.
According to Ang, groundbreaking is set for December. He also said that the 4 runways will be completed in 5 years.
Road network
Ang said the DOTr agreed to enter the construction deal with SMC on the condition that the airport express and tollways would not cause more congestion along existing roads.
Regarding this, Ang outlined a planned transportation system, which involves 5 roads leading to the airport: Cavite coastal road or the Manila-Cavite Expressway, two routes in the Skyway system, and respective routes from Meycauayan and Bocaue.
He also said a train will be built to transport passengers to key areas, namely Bulacan, Quezon City, Manila, Navotas, and Malabon.
Tugade affirmed the road network will guarantee mobility and connectivity to travelers.
Flooding concerns
With regard to concerns of the construction area being prone to sinking and flooding, Ang responded that plans are in place to pump out water and suck silt from the land.
He also said that surrounding rivers, specifically Tullahan, Meycauayan, and Malolos, will be cleaned within one year. According to Ang, they have already acquired equipment for river cleaning.
He added that these efforts will be done in cooperation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and the province of Bulacan.
Tugade said that these plans will be issued with environment clearance.
https://www.rappler.com/business/240426-dotr-san-miguel-construction-deal-manila-international-airport
 |
| FREEDOM OF CHOICE. Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and San Miguel Corporation President Ramon Ang sign the contract to build the Manila International Airport, which Tugade says will contribute to the public’s “freedom of choice” in traveling. Photo by Loreben Tuquero/Rappler |
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) signed a contract for the $15-billion Manila International Airport on Wednesday, September 18, bringing the building of an alternative to the congested Ninoy International Airport (NAIA) one step closer.
The construction will be fully funded by private equity, with no government guarantee or subsidy. The 50-year concession agreement also puts SMC in charge of the airport's operations and maintenance.
During the bidding in July, no other firms challenged SMC's proposal.
The airport will be constructed on a 2,400-hectare property in Bulakan, Bulacan, allotting space for 4 runways, 8 taxiways, and 3 passenger terminals.
SMC President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon Ang said the airport was designed this way to allow for flights to land and take off simultaneously.
DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade said that the addition of this airport to the NAIA and the Clark International Airport will make way for “commercial competitiveness” and contribute to the public’s freedom of choice in traveling.
The airport is expected to accommodate 100 million passengers per year, going up to 200 million if it is upgraded to have 6 runways.
During the concession agreement signing, Tugade also announced he had signed the Notice to Proceed, allowing SMC to begin construction.
According to Ang, groundbreaking is set for December. He also said that the 4 runways will be completed in 5 years.
Road network
Ang said the DOTr agreed to enter the construction deal with SMC on the condition that the airport express and tollways would not cause more congestion along existing roads.
Regarding this, Ang outlined a planned transportation system, which involves 5 roads leading to the airport: Cavite coastal road or the Manila-Cavite Expressway, two routes in the Skyway system, and respective routes from Meycauayan and Bocaue.
He also said a train will be built to transport passengers to key areas, namely Bulacan, Quezon City, Manila, Navotas, and Malabon.
Tugade affirmed the road network will guarantee mobility and connectivity to travelers.
Flooding concerns
With regard to concerns of the construction area being prone to sinking and flooding, Ang responded that plans are in place to pump out water and suck silt from the land.
He also said that surrounding rivers, specifically Tullahan, Meycauayan, and Malolos, will be cleaned within one year. According to Ang, they have already acquired equipment for river cleaning.
He added that these efforts will be done in cooperation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and the province of Bulacan.
Tugade said that these plans will be issued with environment clearance.
https://www.rappler.com/business/240426-dotr-san-miguel-construction-deal-manila-international-airport
DOTr, San Miguel sign agreement for Bulacan airport
CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga -- The construction of the PHP735-billion Bulacan International Airport will start by the end of this year.
This was disclosed on Wednesday during the formal signing of the concession agreement for the airport development project.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon Ang signed here the contract, which covers a 50-year concession period.
Under the agreement, San Miguel will undertake the financing, design, construction, supply, completion, testing, commissioning, and operation and maintenance (O&M) of the new international gateway.
With a design capacity of up to 200 million passengers annually and plans for four parallel runways, the Bulacan International Airport is expected to help decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and complement the operations of Clark International Airport (CRK).
Tugade said the Bulacan airport aims to enhance the mobility and connectivity of air-riding Filipinos through an additional choice of gateway.
He noted that with Bulacan International Airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and Clark International Airport, the riding public will have “freedom of choice”.
“It's all about comfort. It's all about convenience. It's all about putting life to the President's wish and desire for a comfortable life for Filipinos," he said.
Ang, for his part, described the project as “a game changer” that would bring more foreign tourists to the Philippines.
“Once completed, the new international gateway will help in significantly boosting tourism that will lead to creating more job opportunities,” he said.
He also expressed hope that the airport will help boost the economic growth in Central Luzon.
“This project will generate over a million direct and indirect jobs, improving the quality of life of many families, and will give rise to small industries in Bulacan and neighboring provinces,” Ang said.
The airport operations are targeted to commence in four to six years. (PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1080785
This was disclosed on Wednesday during the formal signing of the concession agreement for the airport development project.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon Ang signed here the contract, which covers a 50-year concession period.
Under the agreement, San Miguel will undertake the financing, design, construction, supply, completion, testing, commissioning, and operation and maintenance (O&M) of the new international gateway.
With a design capacity of up to 200 million passengers annually and plans for four parallel runways, the Bulacan International Airport is expected to help decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and complement the operations of Clark International Airport (CRK).
Tugade said the Bulacan airport aims to enhance the mobility and connectivity of air-riding Filipinos through an additional choice of gateway.
He noted that with Bulacan International Airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and Clark International Airport, the riding public will have “freedom of choice”.
“It's all about comfort. It's all about convenience. It's all about putting life to the President's wish and desire for a comfortable life for Filipinos," he said.
Ang, for his part, described the project as “a game changer” that would bring more foreign tourists to the Philippines.
“Once completed, the new international gateway will help in significantly boosting tourism that will lead to creating more job opportunities,” he said.
He also expressed hope that the airport will help boost the economic growth in Central Luzon.
“This project will generate over a million direct and indirect jobs, improving the quality of life of many families, and will give rise to small industries in Bulacan and neighboring provinces,” Ang said.
The airport operations are targeted to commence in four to six years. (PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1080785
Tuesday, September 10, 2019
6 new railways to look out for
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has allocated P100.6 billion or 98% of its 2020 infrastructure budget to its ongoing railway projects, 5 times its railway allocation for 2019.
During the DOTr's budget briefing on Thursday, September 5, Railways Undersecretary Timothy Batan outlined the goals of the railway sector by 2022, namely increase the:
The need to prioritize railways was heavily felt, given the lack of any approved infrastructure projects for the maritime and road sectors, and the approval of only two projects for the aviation sector.
Despite getting the largest chunk, the railway sector still suffered a funding gap of P191 billion for foreign-assisted projects, which account for most of the railways in the pipeline.
Out of the P781 billion committed to these projects by official development assistance (ODA) lenders, Japan committed P481 billion, China, P14 billion, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), P286 billion.
How much are each of these railway projects worth, and what is their status so far?
1. North-South Commuter Railway System (NSCR)
National expenditure program (NEP) 2020 allocation: P84.7 billion
Total project cost: P777.55 billion
Source of funding: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and ADB
Construction timeline: Partial operations by 2021, full operations by 2023
Capacity: 350,000 passengers daily
Status: 3 civil works contract packages opened for bidding in August
The 147-kilometer, 37-station mass transportation system aims to bridge Central Luzon, Metro Manila, and Southern Luzon by integrating Philippine National Railway (PNR) Clark 1, PNR Clark 2, and PNR Calamba. It is expected to shorten travel time from North Avenue to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 to 45 minutes.
The railway will also link the Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines 1 and 2, the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) line 3, and the forthcoming Metro Manila Subway.
It is the biggest project under the 'Build, Build, Build' program.
2. Metro Manila Subway Project
NEP 2020 allocation: P9.8 billion
Total project cost: P356.96 billion
Source of funding: ODA
Construction timeline: Partial operations by the 2nd quarter of 2022, main line completion by the 3rd quarter of 2025
Capacity: 365,000 passengers daily
Status: Groundbreaking ceremony was held last February
The 35-kilometer underground railway will span Valenzuela City to Parañaque, with a connection to NAIA Terminal 3.
By 2022, 3 stations are expected to be in operation, namely the Mindanao Avenue-Quirino Highway, Tandang Sora, and North Avenue stations.
By 2025, 15 stations will be operational, connecting Quirino Highway to NAIA Terminal 3 and cutting travel time down to half an hour with the trains running up to 80 km/h.
3. MRT3 Rehabilitation Project
NEP 2020 allocation: P5 billion
Total project cost: P21.97 billion
Source of funding: ODA
Construction timeline: Completion by December 2022
Capacity: 650,000 passengers daily
Status: Ongoing procurement of supervision consultant
The rehabilitation project will cover restoration of assets including light rail vehicles, tracks, signaling system, overhead catenary system (OCS), communications sytem, and depot and station equipment. It will also undergo a 43-month maintenance period, which already started in May 2019 and will end in November 2022.
The MRT3 has deteriorated and runs at a slower operating speed – from 60 km/h to 30 km/h – and increased gaps between trains from 3.5 minutes to 7.5-10 minutes.
The deterioration was blamed on the "compounded effect of neglect, bad maintenance practices, and failure to undertake scheduled overhaul and upgrading works" by the previous maintenance provider. This prompted the DOTr-MRT3 to enact a comprehensive rehabilitation, repair, and restoration of MRT3.
4. Mindanao Railway Project
NEP 2020 allocation: P97 million
Total project cost: P82.9 billion (a 130% increase)
Source of funding: China ODA
Construction timeline: Start by the 1st quarter of 2020, target opening by the 4th quarter of 2022
Capacity: 110,000 passengers
Status: Ongoing pre-construction works and environmental impact assessment
The project targets reduced travel time from Tagum City, Davao del Norte to Digos City, Davao del Sur from 3 hours to one hour.
The 3 cities of Tagum, Davao, and Digos entered into a memorandum of agreement with P5.6 billion allocated to the acquisition of properties and administrative costs.
Its project cost jumped from P35.9 billion to P82.9 billion in July to cover changes in the cost of construction works and the addition of a satellite post in Davao City.
5. PNR South Long Haul
NEP 2020 allocation: P877 million
Total project cost: P175.32 billion
Source of funding: China ODA
Construction timeline: Start by 4th quarter of 2019, partial operations by 2nd quarter of 2022
Capacity: 100,000 passengers
Status: Establishing control points
The 639-kilometer line will connect Metro Manila to the Southern Luzon provinces, shortening travel time from 12 hours via car to only 6 hours.
A loan agreement for the railway's project management consultancy was signed during the bilateral meeting between President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping last August 29.
The PNR was earlier flagged for illegally using the funds for the PNR South Long Haul Railway to pay for security services costs incurred in 2017. The current organization of the PNR drew flak for its inefficiency and mismanagement. (READ: COA raises red flags over PNR 'illegal use' of funds)
6. LRT1 Cavite Extension
NEP 2020 allocation: P74 million
Total project cost: P64.9 billion
Source of funding: Public-private partnership for civil works and electromechanical system, Japan ODA for light rail vehicles and depot
Construction timeline: Partial operability by 4th quarter of 2021, completion by 2022
Capacity: 300,000 to 500,000 passengers daily
Status: Ongoing piling works since September 1
The 11.7-kilometer extension will add stations in Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Cavite and will reduce travel time from Baclaran to Bacoor from 1-2 hours to 25 minutes.
It will also allow commuters coming from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) to travel to and from Metro Manila. Cavite 7th District Representative Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla had earlier moved to suspend PITX operations until the LRT1 extension is completed.
He also slammed the Light Rail Manila Corporation, consisting of Ayala Corporation, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, and the Macquarie Group, for delays in construction of the LRT1 Cavite extension.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/239702-new-railways-to-look-out-for
During the DOTr's budget briefing on Thursday, September 5, Railways Undersecretary Timothy Batan outlined the goals of the railway sector by 2022, namely increase the:
- route length of active railways (at least partially operable or fully-financed) from 1,144 kilometers to 1,900 kilometers
- number of stations from 59 to 169
- number of coaches from 221 to 1,425
- number of passengers from one million to 3 million
The need to prioritize railways was heavily felt, given the lack of any approved infrastructure projects for the maritime and road sectors, and the approval of only two projects for the aviation sector.
Despite getting the largest chunk, the railway sector still suffered a funding gap of P191 billion for foreign-assisted projects, which account for most of the railways in the pipeline.
Out of the P781 billion committed to these projects by official development assistance (ODA) lenders, Japan committed P481 billion, China, P14 billion, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), P286 billion.
How much are each of these railway projects worth, and what is their status so far?
1. North-South Commuter Railway System (NSCR)
National expenditure program (NEP) 2020 allocation: P84.7 billion
Total project cost: P777.55 billion
Source of funding: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and ADB
Construction timeline: Partial operations by 2021, full operations by 2023
Capacity: 350,000 passengers daily
Status: 3 civil works contract packages opened for bidding in August
The 147-kilometer, 37-station mass transportation system aims to bridge Central Luzon, Metro Manila, and Southern Luzon by integrating Philippine National Railway (PNR) Clark 1, PNR Clark 2, and PNR Calamba. It is expected to shorten travel time from North Avenue to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 to 45 minutes.
The railway will also link the Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines 1 and 2, the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) line 3, and the forthcoming Metro Manila Subway.
It is the biggest project under the 'Build, Build, Build' program.
2. Metro Manila Subway Project
NEP 2020 allocation: P9.8 billion
Total project cost: P356.96 billion
Source of funding: ODA
Construction timeline: Partial operations by the 2nd quarter of 2022, main line completion by the 3rd quarter of 2025
Capacity: 365,000 passengers daily
Status: Groundbreaking ceremony was held last February
The 35-kilometer underground railway will span Valenzuela City to Parañaque, with a connection to NAIA Terminal 3.
By 2022, 3 stations are expected to be in operation, namely the Mindanao Avenue-Quirino Highway, Tandang Sora, and North Avenue stations.
By 2025, 15 stations will be operational, connecting Quirino Highway to NAIA Terminal 3 and cutting travel time down to half an hour with the trains running up to 80 km/h.
3. MRT3 Rehabilitation Project
NEP 2020 allocation: P5 billion
Total project cost: P21.97 billion
Source of funding: ODA
Construction timeline: Completion by December 2022
Capacity: 650,000 passengers daily
Status: Ongoing procurement of supervision consultant
The rehabilitation project will cover restoration of assets including light rail vehicles, tracks, signaling system, overhead catenary system (OCS), communications sytem, and depot and station equipment. It will also undergo a 43-month maintenance period, which already started in May 2019 and will end in November 2022.
The MRT3 has deteriorated and runs at a slower operating speed – from 60 km/h to 30 km/h – and increased gaps between trains from 3.5 minutes to 7.5-10 minutes.
The deterioration was blamed on the "compounded effect of neglect, bad maintenance practices, and failure to undertake scheduled overhaul and upgrading works" by the previous maintenance provider. This prompted the DOTr-MRT3 to enact a comprehensive rehabilitation, repair, and restoration of MRT3.
4. Mindanao Railway Project
NEP 2020 allocation: P97 million
Total project cost: P82.9 billion (a 130% increase)
Source of funding: China ODA
Construction timeline: Start by the 1st quarter of 2020, target opening by the 4th quarter of 2022
Capacity: 110,000 passengers
Status: Ongoing pre-construction works and environmental impact assessment
The project targets reduced travel time from Tagum City, Davao del Norte to Digos City, Davao del Sur from 3 hours to one hour.
The 3 cities of Tagum, Davao, and Digos entered into a memorandum of agreement with P5.6 billion allocated to the acquisition of properties and administrative costs.
Its project cost jumped from P35.9 billion to P82.9 billion in July to cover changes in the cost of construction works and the addition of a satellite post in Davao City.
5. PNR South Long Haul
NEP 2020 allocation: P877 million
Total project cost: P175.32 billion
Source of funding: China ODA
Construction timeline: Start by 4th quarter of 2019, partial operations by 2nd quarter of 2022
Capacity: 100,000 passengers
Status: Establishing control points
The 639-kilometer line will connect Metro Manila to the Southern Luzon provinces, shortening travel time from 12 hours via car to only 6 hours.
A loan agreement for the railway's project management consultancy was signed during the bilateral meeting between President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping last August 29.
The PNR was earlier flagged for illegally using the funds for the PNR South Long Haul Railway to pay for security services costs incurred in 2017. The current organization of the PNR drew flak for its inefficiency and mismanagement. (READ: COA raises red flags over PNR 'illegal use' of funds)
6. LRT1 Cavite Extension
NEP 2020 allocation: P74 million
Total project cost: P64.9 billion
Source of funding: Public-private partnership for civil works and electromechanical system, Japan ODA for light rail vehicles and depot
Construction timeline: Partial operability by 4th quarter of 2021, completion by 2022
Capacity: 300,000 to 500,000 passengers daily
Status: Ongoing piling works since September 1
The 11.7-kilometer extension will add stations in Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Cavite and will reduce travel time from Baclaran to Bacoor from 1-2 hours to 25 minutes.
It will also allow commuters coming from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) to travel to and from Metro Manila. Cavite 7th District Representative Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla had earlier moved to suspend PITX operations until the LRT1 extension is completed.
He also slammed the Light Rail Manila Corporation, consisting of Ayala Corporation, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, and the Macquarie Group, for delays in construction of the LRT1 Cavite extension.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/239702-new-railways-to-look-out-for
P79-billion MRT 7 halfway done – DOTR
By Emmie V. Abadilla
The P79-billion Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT7) connecting Quezon City to San Jose Del Monte in Bulacan is now halfway complete, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) yesterday reported.
To be precise, the 22-kilometer rail system is 47.21 per cent finished and will be operational in 2021, reducing the two to three-hour travel time between the two points to 35 minutes.
Overall, MRT7 will service some 420,000 passengers in Metro Manila and nearby provinces of Bulacan and Rizal. It will connect with Light Rail Transit (LRT) 1, MRT 3, and the Metro Manila Subway via the Common Station, which to be built between SM North EDSA and Trinoma mall.
Construction of the project is currently in full swing, 24/7. Building the rolling stock and electrical and mechanical (E&M) works are also in progress, with 108 cars already completed todate.
Ongoing civil works include the guideway construction, underground/depressed and at-grade excavation or concreting works, and installation of coping beam, girder and trans-slabs on the elevated structures.
The project’s private proponent, San Miguel Corporation, through Universal LRT Corp BVI Ltd (ULC), hired the Hyundai Rotem-EEI consortium as engineering, procurement and construction contractor for MRT 7.
“The future of Quezon City depends on big infrastructure projects of the national government as this one,” DOTR said.
https://business.mb.com.ph/2019/09/09/p79-billion-mrt-7-halfway-done-dotr/
The P79-billion Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT7) connecting Quezon City to San Jose Del Monte in Bulacan is now halfway complete, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) yesterday reported.
To be precise, the 22-kilometer rail system is 47.21 per cent finished and will be operational in 2021, reducing the two to three-hour travel time between the two points to 35 minutes.
Overall, MRT7 will service some 420,000 passengers in Metro Manila and nearby provinces of Bulacan and Rizal. It will connect with Light Rail Transit (LRT) 1, MRT 3, and the Metro Manila Subway via the Common Station, which to be built between SM North EDSA and Trinoma mall.
Construction of the project is currently in full swing, 24/7. Building the rolling stock and electrical and mechanical (E&M) works are also in progress, with 108 cars already completed todate.
Ongoing civil works include the guideway construction, underground/depressed and at-grade excavation or concreting works, and installation of coping beam, girder and trans-slabs on the elevated structures.
The project’s private proponent, San Miguel Corporation, through Universal LRT Corp BVI Ltd (ULC), hired the Hyundai Rotem-EEI consortium as engineering, procurement and construction contractor for MRT 7.
“The future of Quezon City depends on big infrastructure projects of the national government as this one,” DOTR said.
https://business.mb.com.ph/2019/09/09/p79-billion-mrt-7-halfway-done-dotr/
Monday, September 9, 2019
NLEX-SLEX connector, more MRT trains to ease Edsa traffic
By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz
Senator Grace Poe on Monday said the promised completion of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) - South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) connector road, more trains running in the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and elevated walkways connecting buildings in urban centers would help ease traffic in Edsa.
“There are things that can help traffic move faster in EDSA and Mega Manila -- the completion of the NLEX-SLEX connector road, which hopefully by January will be completed,” Poe said during her speech at the BusinessWorld Industry 4.0 Summit.
The eight-kilometer elevated four-lane expressway connects the NLEX and SLEX through Segment 10 -- C3 Road in Caloocan City to Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa, Manila -- and Skyway Stage 3.
The project is expected to be traversed by those going through Metro Manila from the north to the south and vice versa, which would effectively relocate a significant portion of vehicular traffic on Edsa.
Another big-impact project, she said, was increasing the number of trains running in the MRT-3, which is yet to be fully realized.
“We’ve been promised many times that the trains that were imported from Dalian will be working soon, but out of the 16 trains, only two or three are working after five years,” Poe said.
An PHP18-billion comprehensive rehabilitation of the MRT-3 is currently ongoing, which the Department of Transportation hopes would increase the ridership of the MRT-3 from the daily average of 320,000 to 650,000 by its expected completion on July 2021.
Sumitomo-MHI TESP, the contractor and maintenance provider of the MRT-3 project, will also overhaul all light rail vehicles of the rail transit, replace mainline tracks to increase its operating speeds, rehabilitate power and overhead catenary systems, among other upgrades.
Walkways, innovative transport systems
Aside from motorized mass transportation, the senator also highlighted conventional walkways as an effective solution to congestion in the metro.
“If the government would mandate that, if you build certain buildings in a financial center or a business center, you should already have elevated walkways to connect to other buildings,” Poe said.
She emphasized that these mass transport systems would be more effective than regulations on innovative transport systems such as transport network companies (TNC) like Grab and Angkas.
“Yet the initial reaction of some people, such as the LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board), was to treat the TNCs like taxi operators and regulate their supply and price,” Poe said.
The senator said passenger rights and innovations must be carefully balanced because “nothing chokes an enterprise more than excessive regulation.”
She added that the Philippines’ mass transportation is not yet fully available, thus, “the state is obligated to explore new modes of transportation for the sake of our commuters.”
During the summit, experts from both the government and private sectors tackled the fourth industrial revolution brought by such innovative technologies as learning robots through artificial intelligence, Internet of things, 3D-printing, among others. (PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079978
Senator Grace Poe on Monday said the promised completion of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) - South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) connector road, more trains running in the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and elevated walkways connecting buildings in urban centers would help ease traffic in Edsa.
“There are things that can help traffic move faster in EDSA and Mega Manila -- the completion of the NLEX-SLEX connector road, which hopefully by January will be completed,” Poe said during her speech at the BusinessWorld Industry 4.0 Summit.
The eight-kilometer elevated four-lane expressway connects the NLEX and SLEX through Segment 10 -- C3 Road in Caloocan City to Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa, Manila -- and Skyway Stage 3.
The project is expected to be traversed by those going through Metro Manila from the north to the south and vice versa, which would effectively relocate a significant portion of vehicular traffic on Edsa.
Another big-impact project, she said, was increasing the number of trains running in the MRT-3, which is yet to be fully realized.
“We’ve been promised many times that the trains that were imported from Dalian will be working soon, but out of the 16 trains, only two or three are working after five years,” Poe said.
An PHP18-billion comprehensive rehabilitation of the MRT-3 is currently ongoing, which the Department of Transportation hopes would increase the ridership of the MRT-3 from the daily average of 320,000 to 650,000 by its expected completion on July 2021.
Sumitomo-MHI TESP, the contractor and maintenance provider of the MRT-3 project, will also overhaul all light rail vehicles of the rail transit, replace mainline tracks to increase its operating speeds, rehabilitate power and overhead catenary systems, among other upgrades.
Walkways, innovative transport systems
Aside from motorized mass transportation, the senator also highlighted conventional walkways as an effective solution to congestion in the metro.
“If the government would mandate that, if you build certain buildings in a financial center or a business center, you should already have elevated walkways to connect to other buildings,” Poe said.
She emphasized that these mass transport systems would be more effective than regulations on innovative transport systems such as transport network companies (TNC) like Grab and Angkas.
“Yet the initial reaction of some people, such as the LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board), was to treat the TNCs like taxi operators and regulate their supply and price,” Poe said.
The senator said passenger rights and innovations must be carefully balanced because “nothing chokes an enterprise more than excessive regulation.”
She added that the Philippines’ mass transportation is not yet fully available, thus, “the state is obligated to explore new modes of transportation for the sake of our commuters.”
During the summit, experts from both the government and private sectors tackled the fourth industrial revolution brought by such innovative technologies as learning robots through artificial intelligence, Internet of things, 3D-printing, among others. (PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079978
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