Manila: The Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) is set to provide the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 with its first mass public transportation link, as the subway station is now under construction, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lopez, during a groundbreaking ceremony, emphasized that this marks the first instance where a mass public transport system will connect directly to the airport. He highlighted the significance of the development, noting that the subway will be a significant benefit to the public, offering a reliable transport option to the airport.

Lopez stated that the right-of-way acquisition for the station area has been completed, underscoring the Department of Transportation's (DOTr) commitment to expediting the construction of the NAIA T3 station. This is in line with the President's directive to accelerate infrastructure projects.

The planned completion for the entire MMSP is set for the last quarter of 2031. The 2.413-kilometer NAIA Terminal 3 Station and tunnels will utilize Japanese underpinning technology to maintain existing expressway piers while accommodating the subway tunnel alignment.

The right-of-way for the station has been secured from various agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Highways, Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Manila International Airport Authority, New NAIA Infra Corp., and the Pasay City government.

Upon completion, the station is expected to reduce travel time from Valenzuela City to NAIA Terminal 3 to approximately 40 minutes. The subway project, financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, will cover 33 kilometers with 17 stations, and is projected to serve around 70,000 passengers daily by 2035, increasing to about 74,000 by 2045.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. spearheaded the groundbreaking ceremony, reinforcing his commitment to fast-tracking mass transport projects to meet commuter needs.