Photo credit: DOTr

Today marks a significant milestone for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) broke ground on the Banlic Depot in Calamba, Laguna, initiating Contract Package S-07 of the project.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista highlighted the swift progress of the NSCR project, noting developments since last year's commencement of land development and preparatory works in 2023.

"We mark significant progress since June last year in land development and other preparatory works such as geotechnical investigation, fencing, clearing, erecting temporary project site offices and access roads," Secretary Bautista stated during the groundbreaking ceremony.

The Banlic Depot spans 24.5 hectares and encompasses the construction of CP-S07, which includes a control center, stabling yard, maintenance shop, and other auxiliary buildings. Valued at P16.9 billion, this Contract Package is slated for completion by 2028.

"For residents of Banlic and adjacent communities, the NSCR will not only enhance connectivity but also transform their socio-economic status by providing rapid mobility for people and goods," Secretary Bautista emphasized.

He further underscored the anticipated benefits of the NSCR, stating, "I do not have to impress the promised benefits of this and other rail systems in terms of convenience, comfort, and speed of travel for passengers."

Financed jointly by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the 147-kilometer NSCR System will link Metro Manila, Pampanga, Bulacan, and Laguna. Once operational, it is expected to reduce travel time from Clark, Pampanga to Calamba, Laguna by nearly two hours and serve up to 800,000 passengers daily.