Manila: The Economy and Development (ED) Council, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has sanctioned key changes to the ongoing Metro Rail Transit 7 (MRT-7) project and the Fast Patrol Crafts initiative, as announced by the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev).
According to Philippines News Agency, during its 9th meeting, the Council approved modifications in the technical execution of the MRT-7 project to overcome current challenges and expedite its completion. The MRT-7 is anticipated to significantly reduce travel time between Quezon City and Bulacan from approximately three hours to just 35 minutes, with operations set to commence by 2027. The transit line is expected to accommodate up to 850,000 passengers daily.
DEPDev Secretary and ED Council Vice Chairperson Arsenio Balisacan emphasized the importance of these refinements, stating, "The approval of the refinements for MRT-7 implementation marks a critical step forward in finally delivering this long-overdue project. By addressing its current challenges, we are now in a stronger position to push toward its completion." He further noted the commitment to easing congestion and improving mobility across Metro Manila, highlighting the project's role in enhancing economic integration in the region.
Additionally, the ED Council has approved changes to the Department of Transportation-Philippine Coast Guard's plan to acquire 40 fast patrol crafts (FPCs). These adjustments include a revision of the project cost and an extension of the implementation period, accounting for foreign exchange fluctuations and the finalization of financing arrangements. This project, with a budget of PHP31.8 billion, will be funded through an official development assistance loan from the Government of the French Republic.
The FPCs are expected to bolster the country's maritime security by enhancing law enforcement against marine crimes such as smuggling, and by improving disaster response and search-and-rescue operations. Balisacan remarked on the significance of this initiative, saying, "As we continuously face global uncertainties that persistently challenge our economy, we consider this a crucial project in strengthening the country's maritime security, disaster response, and law enforcement capabilities."
