Department of Transportation and Communication Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya revealed on Tuesday, September 17, 2013, that Metro Manila is ready to build its own subway system.
According to the DOTC Secretary, the Japanese government through the Japan International Cooperation Agency will begin soon for a north-to-south subway line along EDSA (Epifanio De Los Santos Avenue).
The announcement of the probability of building Metro Manila’s first subway system came during the Philippine Economic Forum held on Tuesday. The Secretary stated that there is not much difference in the cost for a subway and other modes of public transport.
When the Press people present during the event asked the DOTC Secretary if the subway project will materialize within President Aquino’s term, Sec. Abaya responded that the government can lay the groundwork of the project, but the next administration can see the logic of pursuing a subway system for EDSA.
At present, the Metro Rail Transit (MRT-3), located along EDSA, is already operating at overcapacity, causing long lines and overcrowding trains. The MRT can accommodate a total of 650,000 daily commuters based upon the 2012-2013 record from the DOTC.
