The Philippine government is set to borrow ₱8.2 billion from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to finance the rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).
In a statement, the Department of Finance (DOF) said the project aims to restore the MRT-3 system to its original operating condition, enhance its overall performance, and prepare it for future expansion through the repair and upgrade of critical components.
“All parts of the system will be repaired, renewed, or upgraded, including tracks, signals, power, overhead lines, communications, and station and maintenance equipment,” the DOF said.
The rehabilitation will also allow the deployment of additional four-car train sets, increasing each train’s capacity by up to 394 passengers.
This is expected to ease congestion and improve the daily commuting experience for thousands of riders.
Finance Secretary Frederick Go described the project as a strategic investment in mobility and economic productivity.
“When commuters save even 20 minutes a day, that is more time for family and rest. When employees arrive on time, productivity improves. When transportation is reliable, businesses grow and jobs are created,” Go said.