Possible delay in the completion of the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 will likely be triggered by the proposed reroute of the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 in San Jose del Monte City (SJDMC) but this is a small price local stakeholders are ready to accept in order to guarantee public convenience and better quality of life in the long run.

SJDMC Mayor Arthur Robes aired this view even as he disclosed that the proposals for the realignment of MRT-7 were the result of effective and inclusive consultations among relevant stakeholders in the city. 

Robes said consultations on MRT-7 were conducted by the city government to tackle vital issues  that will affect his constituents. Discussed were  the current and future traffic implications, quality of living, disruption in the delivery of essential services, among others.

“Our city government consolidated various sentiments from our constituency and we immediately shared it in a meeting with Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista for consideration of the national government and the MRT-7 proponent,” said Robes.

In the meeting, city officials presented the Department of Transportation (DOTr) with various realignment options containing the consensus reached during the previous public consultations.

Robes stressed that common among the concerns that were addressed by the options submitted to DOTR are those that will guarantee that the general welfare and interests San Jose del Monte folk are addressed and protected.

The local executive underscored that the proposed railway route follow Quirino Highway, a key thoroughfare used by a significant number of commuters traveling to and from Metro Manila.

“We have  forwarded options where this essential project can push through while also ensuring that the general welfare of the people of San Jose del Monte is met,” said Robes.

The city mayor further clarified that the LGU is not part of the negotiations regarding right of way (row) issues affecting the project.  He said affected property owners likely directed their appeal to the DOTr.

“We are looking forward to working with the Department of Transportation and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) to fast track the successful completion of this vital infrastructure project,” said Robes.’

On Monday (May 21) , Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista disclosed that the construction of the 22-kilometer project might face a delay until 2027, subsequently postponing its formal operations to 2028, should the SMC decide to push through with its proposed realignment.

The MRT-7 railway project spans 22 kilometers and encompasses 14 stations, commencing from North Avenue, Quezon City, and concluding at SJDMC in Bulacan. This infrastructure development is expected to serve approximately 800,000 passengers on a daily basis.