DOTr Eyes Q1 2028 for Partial Operations of Common Station

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is eyeing partial operations of the Unified Grand Central Station, or Common Station, by the first quarter of 2028, its Secretary Giovanni Lopez said on Thursday. According to Lopez, the Economy and Development Council recently approved the variation order for the project. He said that after the approval, the project is expected to move faster. The Common Station is envisioned as a hub that will connect the MRT-3, MRT-7, and the future PNR Metro North-South Commuter Railway. Its completion is expected to significantly improve public transportation convenience in Metro Manila, reduce travel times, and ease traffic congestion in the urban core. The project has faced numerous delays over the years due to issues such as land acquisition, funding, and inter-agency coordination. The recent approval of the variation order marks a potentially significant step towards the project's final completion. Infrastructure development in the Philippines is considered vital for economic growth, and project delays can have direct consequences on the daily lives of citizens. In Metro Manila, with its increasing population density, the development of an efficient and sustainable public transportation network is a pressing concern.