Power utility giant Manila Electric Company (Meralco) will be infusing fresh capital outlay of P280 million for the development of a switching station that will support electricity services for the multi-billion Metro Manila subway project.

The 115-kilovolt (kV) switching station that shall be sited in Barangay Ugong, Valenzuela City, which is up for completion in 2026, will underpin the continued implementation of the country’s major railway project.

That particular facility, according to Meralco, will be a very vital infrastructure support for the 33.1-kilometer rapid rail system that will connect various areas in Metro Manila – stretching all the way to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which is the country’s main gateway to the world.

The electrification of rail systems is regarded as a more viable solution in addressing efficiency for public transport system – because this is symbolic of technological advancements and it will also be an environmentally friendly option compared to rail tracks chugging on diesel fuel.

As noted by Meralco, the planned switching station “will play a crucial role in connecting the transport system to Meralco’s distribution network.”

Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista primary stated that the railway project “will not be able to proceed without help from Meralco.”

He conveyed  “this collaboration goes deeper than a public-private partnership. It translates to the benefit of subway commuters whom we promised comfortable, affordable, safe, sustainable and accessible train rides.”

Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho  thus assured the transportation department that the utility firm will be extending full support to railway project until it gets to its commercial fruition.

In the Meralco executive’s view, the subway project “will definitely change the way of living in the country’s economic center.”

During the signing ceremony for the propounded switching station, Aperocho emphasized that this undertaking with the government is a manifestation of Meralco’s “commitment to powering the country’s critical infrastructure by providing reliable, efficient, and sustainable power.”

When the Metro Manila subway project reaches commercial operations, it is highly anticipated that this could substantially reduce travel time between Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City to the NAIA terminal 3 in Pasay City to about 45 minutes from currently at more than an hour or even longer.

The subway rail infrastructure is likewise seen as the country’s final saving grace in solving the very stubborn traffic mess in the main metropolis that is not only distressing Filipinos in their daily commutes to work, but has also been resulting in economic losses due to the length of time spent on the streets that could have been better use for productivity at work.