The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has begun acquiring right-of-way (ROW) properties for the Mindanao Railway Project (MRP), with 96 families scheduled for relocation in the first quarter of 2026.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier instructed the DOTr to accelerate ROW acquisition to jumpstart construction of Mindanao’s first-ever railway system.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the agency has earmarked ₱148 million for the relocation of 178 families to the Tagum Train Village.

“The President wants us to expedite the right-of-way acquisition because Mindanaoans have long awaited this project. We are working quickly so construction can begin soon, benefiting thousands of future passengers,” Secretary Lopez said.

Transportation Assistant Secretary for ROW and Site Acquisition IC Calaguas visited Tagum City to inspect the Tagum Train Village and coordinate with Mayor Rey Uy to streamline the processing of affected families.

The Tagum Train Village is being managed by the local government under the supervision of the DOTr and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

The remaining 82 families will be relocated once they complete the required documents, including application forms, civil registry records, valid IDs, family photos, and residency and employment certifications.

The 100-kilometer Tagum–Davao–Digos segment of the Mindanao Railway will feature eight stations connecting Tagum City in Davao del Norte, Davao City, and Digos City in Davao del Sur.