The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has begun the demolition and fencing of the Metrowalk property in Pasig City to make way for the construction of the Ortigas Station of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP).

Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the move marks significant progress in the long-delayed project, which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered to fast-track to improve daily commuting.

“After nearly three years of delay, we have started the demolition and fencing of the property so construction of the Ortigas Station can finally begin,” Lopez said.

Lopez, who earlier joined Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto in the demolition of the nearby Blackrock property, reported that 82% of the subway’s right-of-way has been acquired, with a 95% target completion by December.

Transportation Assistant Secretary for Right-of-Way and Site Acquisition IC Calaguas led the activity, joined by former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson and Ako Ilocano Ako Partylist Representative Richelle Singson Michael.

The Singson family, through Blemp Commercial of the Philippines Inc. (BCPI), manages Metrowalk and has cooperated with the government in allocating 12,752 square meters of the property for the subway project.

Once completed, the 33-kilometer, 17-station underground railway will connect Valenzuela City to Parañaque City, including a spur line to NAIA Terminal 3. Travel time from Valenzuela to Pasay is expected to be cut from 1 hour and 38 minutes to just 45 minutes, serving an estimated 519,000 passengers daily by 2032.