The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has officially commenced the demolition of ten Philippine National Railways (PNR) stations stretching from Santa Mesa, Manila to Cabuyao, Laguna, marking a major step forward in the construction of the southern segment of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project.

Acting DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez led the inspection at Cabuyao Station, emphasizing that the demolition aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to fast-track high-impact infrastructure projects. The stations slated for demolition include Cabuyao, Santa Rosa, Alabang, Bicutan, Blumentritt, Sucat, Muntinlupa, Biñan, San Pedro, and Mamatid.

“This is one way for us to continue the project. And we can’t do this without the help of the local government,” Lopez said in Filipino.

The NSCR South viaduct is a key component of the 147-kilometer railway system that will eventually connect Clark International Airport in Pampanga to Calamba, Laguna. Once fully operational, the NSCR is expected to serve around 800,000 passengers daily and significantly reduce travel time across Luzon.

Lopez noted that right-of-way issues for the southern leg are expected to be resolved by 2026, with phased completions scheduled: Malolos-Valenzuela by 2027, Malolos-Clark by 2028, and full operations by 2032.

In a separate statement, Lopez addressed skepticism surrounding his recent directive for DOTr executives to commute at least once a week. He insisted the move was not symbolic but a genuine effort to understand commuter challenges firsthand.

“This is not acting. We mean business and we’re sincere in doing this,” Lopez said, responding to critics including transport group Manibela.

The DOTr’s push to modernize the country’s rail infrastructure comes amid broader efforts to improve public transportation and reduce urban congestion.  (PNA)