Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista expressed optimism that the construction of the MRT-4 line will begin in 2026 as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in 2025 will solely focus on finishing the project’s detailed engineering design as well as acquiring needed right-of-way.

“We’re very optimistic na masisimulan natin ‘yung MRT-4… siguro ang construction nito magstart ng 2026,” Sec. Bautista said during an interview over Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon.
Sec. Bautista said the agency has contracted the services of a Spanish consultant and two other private entities for the detailed engineering design.

“Ang latest sa MRT-4 ay ginagawa na namin ‘yung detailed engineering design. We have engaged the services of a Spanish consultant preparing the detailed engineering design. Nakakuha na rin tayo ng dalawa pang other consultants,” he noted.

As far as right-of-way is concerned, the transport chief said it will not be an issue since the project will be erected along a major highway.

“Itong 2025, the whole year will be for finalization of detailed engineering design, acquisition of right-of-way. Although nakikita namin na hindi masyadong mahirap [ang acquisition ng ROW] dahil gagamitin natin ang Ortigas Ave. dito,” Sec. Bautista explained.
“Ang importante lang magkaroon ng tamang coordination with MMDA at PNP para hindi masyadong maapektuhan ang mga byahero diyan,” he added.

Funding for the project has also been secured, according to Sec. Bautista, with the DOTr securing financing from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

“Ang MRT-4 mayroon tayong commitment from ADB to support it. So as far as financing is concerned, nandiyan ang ADB,” he said.

The 15.5 kilometer rail line will cut across the cities of Mandaluyong, San Juan, Quezon, Pasig, and municipalities of Cainta and Taytay in Rizal, addressing the massive traffic problem and limited road capacities in the over-populated areas of eastern Metro Manila.
Once operational, the MRT-4 will benefit 400,000 passengers daily.