After a two-year delay, construction of the Solis and Blumentritt stations of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Project in Manila has officially begun, with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Manila City Government joining forces to fast-track the works.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso led the start of clearing operations at Old Antipolo Road, responding to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to expedite the completion of major mass transport projects for the benefit of commuters.

Sec. Dizon thanked Mayor Domagoso and the city government for their swift action in facilitating the start of construction.

“This shows that when the National Government and Local Government work together, projects move forward. We’re confident that this time, progress will be faster,” Dizon said.

Mayor Domagoso assured full support for the President’s infrastructure initiatives, especially those aimed at improving public transport.

“On behalf of the people of Manila, we are grateful to the President for implementing this project. We’re glad to have a new DOTr Secretary who acts quickly. The City Government will support all projects that will benefit our citizens 101 percent,” he said.

The NSCR is a flagship railway project designed to ease travel between Central Luzon, Metro Manila, and Calabarzon, significantly cutting travel time for thousands of daily commuters.