Marcos urged to review transport infra priorities

As President Marcos revamps his Cabinet, commuter and mobility groups said now is the best time for the infrastructure team to reassess what projects can be completed by 2028.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

Infrawatch PH convenor and returning lawmaker Terry Ridon said the government needs to revisit its priority infrastructure, especially as the President is nearing the midway of his term.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is facing years of delay in finishing the P873.6-billion North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) and the P488.5-billion Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) on right of way (ROW) issues.

The Malolos-Clark segment of the NSCR was supposed to be operational by 2027, but is now expected only by 2028. The MMSP was set for completion by 2029, but was moved to 2032 on slow progress in certain areas.

"The President should determine which flagship infrastructure projects can actually be delivered and completed within his term. This should be the main focus if ensuring legacy is a major driver for the Cabinet revamp," Ridon told The STAR.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon was appointed by Marcos in February to resolve the issues surrounding transport projects, particularly the big-ticket railways.