THE government has proposed P197.3 billion for railway infrastructure under the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP) to accelerate major rail projects nationwide and strengthen the transportation sector.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro on Monday said the move was in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to provide faster, more convenient public transportation.
Castro said the proposed allocation is expected to accelerate development of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) system.
“This step is aimed at accelerating the progress of the North-South Commuter Railway System, which is expected to ease the commute for passengers and boost the country's economy,” she said in a press briefing.
Under the 2027 NEP, over P123.8 billion has been earmarked for the NSCR project, which will connect key areas in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Pampanga, and Laguna.
The proposed budget also included P67.44 billion for Phase 1 of the Metro Manila Subway Project, which is expected to help ease traffic congestion in the National Capital Region.
Other rail projects included in the proposed budget are P1.17 billion for the Light Railway Transit Line 1 Cavite Extension Project, P1.94 billion for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 Rehabilitation Project, and P603 million for the LRT Line 1 South Extension Project.
Castro said the administration increased investment in railway infrastructure "as part of its commitment to ensuring that public funds are used to benefit Filipinos by improving mobility, easing traffic, and supporting economic growth."
