By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora | Philippine News Agency
The Japanese and Philippine governments on Wednesday signed a P8.175-billion second supplemental loan for the rehabilitation and maintenance of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).
The funding seeks to restore MRT-3 to its original “as-designed” condition, enabling future capacity expansion and ensuring sustained performance.
The project covers the replacement of mainline rails, the general overhaul of 72 CKD-Tatra light rail vehicles, procurement of body frames and assemblies and integration with other MRT-3 projects.
It also includes the restoration, renewal, or upgrade of key subsystems such as tracks, signaling, power supply, overhead catenary, communications and maintenance and station equipment.
The loan agreement was signed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya.
“I hope this milestone will further strengthen our friendship and open the door to even broader cooperation in the years ahead. Japan remains firmly committed to standing alongside the Philippines as a trusted partner in the development and security,” Endo said.
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chief Representative Baba Takashi and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez witnessed the signing.
Lopez said the project is targeted for completion in October 2027.
MRT-3 serves an average of 400,000 passengers daily, totaling more than 140 million riders in 2025 alone.
With the upgrades, Lopez said commuters can expect a “better commuting experience.”
