The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has credited its right-of-way (ROW) and site acquisition team for helping clear long-standing obstacles to major transport projects, including the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR).
The team, led by Assistant Secretary IC Calaguas, was established to focus exclusively on land acquisition and site development, making Calaguas the first DOTr official to hold a position dedicated to these functions, according to a story published by The Situation Report.
DOTr Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Lopez said ROW issues have historically been among the biggest causes of delays in major infrastructure projects. He noted that delays in land acquisition can result in rising costs for projects financed through official development assistance (ODA) loans, even before civil works begin.
“Kapag nagkaproblema na tayo sa right-of-way, itong mga ODA loans natin, kahit bigyan pa tayo ng mahaba-habang grace period, kinakain na po ‘yan,” Lopez said in an interview with DZRH News’ Special, aired August 29 as part of the DZRH SONA 2026 Series.
He explained that when ROW problems stall a project, interest and other financing-related expenses continue to accumulate, alongside suspension and prolongation costs.
Lopez said Calaguas’ appointment, which was initially made under then-Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, created “not just a single point of responsibility but a single point of accountability” for ROW concerns. The team also works closely with the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) in addressing legal and land acquisition issues.
The transportation chief likewise credited the Accelerated and Reformed Right-of-Way Act (ARROW Act), or Republic Act No. 12289, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on September 12, 2025, for helping address long-standing ROW challenges.
Among the issues resolved was the ROW blockage in Corinthians, Quezon City, which had affected the Metro Manila Subway. The law also permits underground entry beyond 40 meters in depth for subway projects, facilitating the development of deep underground rail systems.
With the ROW reforms and strengthened accountability, completion of ROW acquisition for the Metro Manila Subway has reached 90 percent, while other major railway projects have likewise recorded progress after years of delays.
The DOTr said the reforms underscore the importance of resolving land acquisition issues early to keep major rail projects moving and prevent further escalation of project and financing costs.
