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| Photo courtesy of DOTr |
By Jimmyley Guzman
QUEZON CITY (PIA) — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) sees the rehabilitation project of MRT-3 as a huge boost in train ridership and in further ensuring the safety of passengers.
This, after the Philippines and Japan last week signed and exchanged notes for the second supplemental loan for the rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).
The MRT-3 rehabilitation project is a component of President Marcos Jr. ‘s Build, Better More (BBM) Infrastructure Development initiative, which aims to restore the rail line’s designed condition to ease the commuting experience in the National Capital Region.
“Our goal is to provide a better commuting experience that respects the time and safety of every passenger, especially senior citizens and persons with disabilities. When commuting becomes faster and safer, commuters gain back precious hours that can be well spent with their families and loved ones,” said Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez.
Lopez stressed that the MRT-3 rehabilitation will be a huge boost to its steadily increasing ridership, reflecting growing public trust in its reliability.
The transport chief likewise expressed his gratitude to the Government of Japan for its continued support to the Philippines, saying the agreement reflects the strong and reliable partnership between the two countries.
Secretary Lopez also thanked the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Department of Finance, the Economy and Development Council (ED Council), the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev), and other partner agencies for approving and facilitating the MRT-3 rehab project, aimed at improving the rail line’s efficiency and safety.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to our fellow agencies in the Philippine government as this loan would not have been possible without your full support,” he added.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro also noted that the MRT-3 line plays a crucial role in the daily lives of commuters.
“The continued rehabilitation of this vital transport system is therefore not merely an infrastructure project, but a direct investment in the productivity, safety and quality of life of our people,” Lazaro said.
For his part, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya vowed that the Government of Japan will continue to support the advancement of the Philippines’ railway system, which will improve the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
“Japan remains firmly committed to standing alongside the Philippines as a trusted partner in the development and security. I sincerely hope that through our joint efforts, MRT-3 will continue to provide safer, more reliable and more convenient service for commuters,” Ambassador Kazuya said.
The MRT-3 line runs north to south along EDSA, from North Avenue station in Quezon City to Taft Avenue station in Pasay City, and vice versa. (JEG/PIA-NCR)
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