South Korea’s national railway operator Korea Railroad Corp. (KORAIL) has inked an agreement to provide technical support for the operations and maintenance (O&M) of Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT‑7) as the project targets 2026 for full operations.
SMC MRT-7 Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of San Miguel Corp.’s (SMC) infrastructure unit, announced that it has signed an O&M services agreement with KORAIL as MRT-7 nears completion.
“This is a critical step as we move closer to delivering MRT-7 to the public,” said SMC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramon Ang in a statement on Tuesday, April 22.
“We have faced delays—mostly due to right-of-way (ROW) issues—but we have stayed focused. With all trains expected to be running and tested by the end of this year, and full operations targeted for 2026, this partnership with KORAIL brings us closer to our goal,” he added.
KORAIL, which operates South Korea’s extensive rail network, will serve an advisory role to MRT-7. Particularly, it will guide the setup of the rail line’s core operational systems, safety protocols, and maintenance programs.
The South Korean firm’s engagement will start in July, with the first six to 12 months focused on completing pre-operational requirements and stabilizing key systems.
Over the long term, it will be tasked to provide technical support to help ensure operational continuity, knowledge transfer, and application of global best practices.
KORAIL President and CEO Han Moon Hee described its partnership with SMC as a “landmark of cooperation and mutual prosperity.”
“I am confident that the fusion of KORAIL’s technical expertise with San Miguel’s managerial prowess will make MRT-7 the finest rail in the Philippines,” said Han.
“I am certain that the success of MRT-7 will become a role model for Philippine railway projects and dramatically improve mobility and quality of life for the Filipino people,” he added.
Furthermore, Ang credited the Department of Transportation (DOTr), headed by Secretary Vince Dizon, for its efforts to push for public-private partnerships (PPPs).
“At San Miguel, we remain committed to building projects that not only improve everyday life for Filipinos, but also contribute to sustainable growth for our economy,” he said.
Ang’s SMC MRT-7 Corp. holds the concession to build, operate, and maintain MRT-7.
The 22-kilometer (km) elevated railway will connect North Avenue in Quezon City to City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, across 14 stations.
It is expected to significantly cut travel time, decongest roads, and improve mobility across Metro Manila and nearby provinces.