THE Economy and Development (ED) Council has terminated a previously approved design-and-build contract for the Unified Grand Central Station (UGCS) Project to allow an alternative solution to its completion.
The final termination will allow the project to proceed through separate implementation arrangements, including the hiring of new contractors to avoid further delays and finish the work, the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) said on Friday.
The UCGS was planned as a common station that will connect the Light Rail Transit Line 1, Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3 and MRT Line 7 to enable smooth passenger transfers to road-based transportation systems. It had been approved by the Investment Coordination Committee.
Last May 16, 2025, however, the Department of Transportation canceled the contract for BF Corp. and Foresight Development and Surveying Co. to build the UGCS due to excessive delays in civil works.
Marawi reconstruction
Meanwhile, the ED Council approved the Department of Public Works and Highways’ request for increased cost and extended implementation of the Reconstruction and Development Plan for a Greater Marawi Stage 2 (RDPGM2).
The RDPGM2 covers 26.59 kilometers of roads, bridges, drainage and slope protection projects for the rehabilitation of Marawi City. It will restore transport connectivity and improve mobility, facilitate access to services, and promote social and economic recovery in areas affected by the Marawi siege in 2017.
“These adjustments reflect the updated cost requirements for civil works, consultancy services and right-of-way acquisition, based on the current implementation conditions and revised project requirements,” the DEPDev said.
“The government reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that areas affected by conflict and calamities are rebuilt through resilient and inclusive infrastructures,” it added.
Aside from the two projects, the ED Council likewise discussed the status and progress of the implementation of the government’s Infrastructure Flagship Projects (IFPs) and the updated list of these IFPs under the Build Better More program.
The Marcos administration has 201 priority IFPs with an estimated cost of P9.970 trillion. Three projects were added, namely, the Liloan Bridge Construction, the Farm-to-Market Bridge Development Program, and the Accelerated Water and Sanitation Project in Selected Areas.
“The administration continues to pursue targeted actions across sectors to drive inclusive and sustained economic growth,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said.
The ED Council, which is chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., sets national and regional economic policy, approves major projects and promotes inclusive growth.