DOTr reveals details on Japan-backed MRT rehab

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation on Tuesday bared the final details on the three-year makeover of the overcrowded Metro Rail Transit, which will be financed by Japan.

Reports of MRT train breakdowns have become as regular as the weather. In 2017, the shabby metro rail system, which serves thousands of passengers each day, reportedly suffered at least 500 disruptions.

In a statement, the DOTr said the government and Japan International Cooperation Agency, or JICA, signed last Friday the final details on the estimated project cost, scope of works and schedule of the MRT rehabilitation.

Based on the discussions, upgrading the MRT will take 43 months: 31 months for the simultaneous rehabilitation and maintenance works to restore MRT to its original design condition and capacity; and 12 months for the defect liability period.

The project, which is estimated to cost ¥34.480 billion (P16.985 billion), will cover the repair of trains, power supply system, overhead catenary system, radio system, CCTV system, signaling system, rail tracks, elevators and escalators and other station building equipment.

“After completing the Appraisal Mission, DOTr and Japan will now move on to signing of the loan agreement and the mobilization of the new maintenance and rehabilitation provider for MRT, which is targeted this June 2018,” the Transportation department said.

Last year, the government terminated its contract with Busan Universal Rail Inc., the MRT-3 service provider, due to alleged poor performance.

To ensure the project’s sustainability, a supervision consultant will be hired to facilitate and monitor the implementation of the MRT rehabilitation.