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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider JV Ejercito vows to support, push for DOTr's modern railways project

JV Ejercito vows to support, push for DOTr's modern railways project

Published May 7, 2025 02:06 pm

At A Glance

  • "I've always believed modern railways are key to solving traffic and to connecting and bringing development to our regions," Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito said.

Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito on Wednesday, March 7 said he is committed to support the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) efforts to complete all pending infrastructure projects before the Marcos administration’s term ends in 2028.

Ejercito made this assurance as he confirmed his recent meeting with DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon last Monday, May 5 where the latter discussed the status of the government’s  ongoing railway projects.

“I appreciate DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon's update on the progress of our key railway projects. These are the same projects I’ve been advocating for over the years, especially the North-South Commuter Railway, the Bicol Express, and the Mindanao Railway,” Ejercito said.

“I’ve always believed modern railways are key to solving traffic and to connecting and bringing development to our regions,” he added.

“Yet, I know these are not easy projects. Right of way and funding issues are always a challenge, but I’m glad to hear that the executive is working hard to keep things moving,” he further said.

With only three years left in the current administration, Ejercito cited the need to focus on “getting things done.”

Nevertheless, the senator said what is important is ensuring that the Executive and Legislative branches of government are in the same direction in addressing problems such as lack of infrastructure, mass transport systems, jeepney modernization, and other projects “that we have long dreamed of for our countrymen.”

“I’m committed to working with Secretary Dizon and the entire administration to ensure these life-changing projects don’t lose momentum,” he vowed.

“These will be top of mind as we go into budget deliberations,” Ejercito stressed.

During last year’s budget deliberation on the 2025 national budget, Ejercito pushed to increase the allocation for priority railway projects, particularly the Philippine National Railways (PNR) South Long-Haul Project, Mindanao Railway Project, and Manila Rail Transit (MRT) Line 4 Project.

The senator said he fully believes railways are deemed necessary for national growth and economic progress. 

The lawmaker said he is certain the Philippines is capable of building its own railway industry.

Related Tags

jv ejercito modern railways Philippine National Railways DOTr
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