DOTr secures over $6M fund for feasibility studies of railway projects

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has secured more than $6 million for the feasibility studies of some railway projects, Secretary Jaime Bautista announced on Monday.

"I am pleased to announce that following the directive of the President in July last year, the Department of Transportation has already secured over $6 million to fund the feasibility studies for the development of the Panay Railway, Bataan Railway and the North Long Haul Interregional Railway, which will connect Ilocos and Cagayan with the National Capital Region," Bautista said in his remarks.

Bautista attended the launching of the Metro Manila Subway Project's tunnel boring machine held in Valenzuela City. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. delivered a keynote message during the event.

"The technical studies for these railways will commence in the next few months," the Transportation chief added.

Bautista said the DOTr would also secure funds for the feasibility studies of the San Mateo Railway, the Northern Mindanao Railway, and the Philippine Transport System Master Plan.

He said these are all part of the Marcos administration's plan to "revive the railway industry."

In his speech, Marcos said that his administration is committed to invest in projects that will continue to improve the Philippines' transportation system.

He said having an effective and efficient transportation system would have multiplier effects on employment, the economy, and the entire society.—AOL, GMA Integrated News