ANGELES CITY – Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon visited Angeles City on March 7, 2025, to request the local government’s assistance in fast-tracking the resolution of right-of-way concerns for the Clark-Angeles-Calumpit railway project.

Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. assured Secretary Dizon of the city’s full support in addressing these issues to prevent delays in the rail development, which is expected to improve transportation connectivity, ease traffic congestion, and boost the region’s economy. He also urged the DOTr to involve the affected barangays in the process.

“We fully support this project as it will provide a more efficient and accessible transportation system for our people. However, we need to ensure that all concerns are addressed promptly and fairly,” Mayor Lazatin said.

Secretary Dizon emphasized the DOTr’s commitment to closely coordinating with the Angeles City government and other stakeholders to expedite the right-of-way acquisition process.

Joining Mayor Lazatin and Secretary Dizon in the meeting were DOTr Assistant Secretary and former Chief Adviser to the Mayor IC Calaguas, City Councilor Atty. Arvin Suller, Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, and DOTr PMC Engr. Shi Yamamoto.

Also present were City Engineer’s Office OIC Helen Ayro, General Services Officer Evangeline Malonzo, Business Permit and Licensing Division Chief Enrico Romero, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer Jenifer Castro, City Assessor Michael Calaguas, and Angeles City Human Settlements and Urban Development Office Deputy Rowel Nava.

The North-South Commuter Railway Clark Extension Project is expected to serve 342,000 passengers daily, providing a significant boost to public transportation in Central Luzon.