Spanning 53.1 kilometers, the MCRP forms part of the 163-km NSCR system, which aims to transform the country’s transportation infrastructure with safe, reliable, and environmentally sustainable rail services linking northern and southern Luzon to Metro Manila.
ADB is also backing the South Commuter Railway Project, the NSCR’s southern segment.
ADB Philippines Country Director Pavit Ramachandran described the MCRP as one of the bank’s largest infrastructure projects in the Asia-Pacific.
“This major transformative project will spur more investments, create jobs, and contribute to sustaining the country’s growth momentum,” he said.
Designed with resilience and advanced engineering techniques, the MCRP will feature three types of train services: regular commuter, express, and the country’s first airport express trains directly connecting passengers to Clark International Airport.
The project is expected to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions by shifting commuters from private vehicles to mass transit.
In addition to easing Metro Manila's congestion, the railway will foster economic integration in the Central Luzon Corridor. ADB had earlier approved the first tranche worth $1.3 billion in 2019, which has already been fully utilized.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is co-financing the MCRP and will deliver key components such as rolling stock and railway systems, including track, electrical, and mechanical infrastructure. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
