The Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) has reached a significant milestone as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officially launched tunnel boring machines (TBMs) at the Camp Aguinaldo station. This marks a crucial step in the construction of the country’s first underground railway system.
Under Contract Package 103, handled by Sumitomo Mitsui Construction, four TBMs will be deployed to excavate tunnels connecting the Anonas and Camp Aguinaldo stations. These machines will cover a distance of approximately 6.5 kilometers.
DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Jeremy Regino announced that more TBMs will be commissioned in the coming years to accelerate the project’s completion. “We plan to deploy a total of 19 TBMs to ensure the timely construction of this transformative subway system,” Regino stated during the launch event.
Despite facing budget constraints in 2025, the DOTr remains committed to advancing the project. Regino emphasized the agency’s determination to address challenges, including right-of-way issues, to keep construction on track. “Even with limited resources, we are fully dedicated to pushing forward with our rail projects to alleviate traffic congestion in Metro Manila and surrounding areas,” he said.
Armed Forces Chief General Romeo Brawner hailed the subway project as a game-changer for the country’s transportation system. “This project will revolutionize travel, making it faster, safer, and more efficient for millions of commuters,” Brawner remarked.
The Metro Manila Subway, often referred to as the “crown jewel” of the Philippines’ public transportation network, will span 33 kilometers across eight cities, from Valenzuela City to FTI-Bicutan in Parañaque City. Once operational, it is expected to cut travel time from Valenzuela City to Pasay City from 1 hour and 38 minutes to just 45 minutes. The subway will serve over 500,000 passengers daily, significantly easing traffic congestion in the capital region.
The launch of the TBMs at Camp Aguinaldo underscores the government’s commitment to delivering this landmark infrastructure project, which promises to transform urban mobility in the Philippines.
