Neda to tackle proposed P370-B subway project

TAGAYTAY CITY, Philippines—Two public-private partnership (PPP) projects, including the proposed P370-billion subway that will connect three business districts in Metro Manila, will be scrutinized at length before President Aquino gives his approval before the end of the month, PPP Center executive director Cosette V. Canilao said on Wednesday.

Canilao said a National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Board meeting would be held on Mar. 24 or 25 to look into the viability of the mass transit system loop that would go through the commercial hubs of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Makati central business district, and the Mall of Asia area in Pasay City; and the P19.3-billion motor vehicle inspection system (MVIS).

Mr. Aquino, who chairs the Neda Board, will preside over the meeting.

According to the PPP Center’s website, the mass transit system will involve the construction as well as operation and management of a 12-kilometer rail line that would run mostly underground. As for the MVIS, it will entail the development, operation and management of a nationwide network of vehicle inspection centers to be linked with the Land Transportation Office’s information system.

The two projects would be implemented by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).

Canilao said the Investment Coordination Committee would stick with its proposal to build a subway below BGC’s 26th Avenue, despite the DOTC warning that the project would be plagued by legal or right-of-way troubles because it would pass through a posh golf and country club.

But Canilao pointed out that “having the subway pass through 26th Avenue is P20-billion cheaper.”

Once the Neda Board approves the proposed subway, the bidding for the private sector partner will start by the latter part of the second quarter.