The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved the final tranche of a $1.45 billion loan for the Malolos-Clark railway project. This initiative aims to modernize the Philippines’ railway system and enhance the country’s transport infrastructure.
The Malolos-Clark railway project is part of the North-South passenger railway plan, covering a distance of 53.1 kilometers. This railway connects Clark International Airport with Malolos, Bulacan. The project not only improves transportation flow but also promotes regional economic integration through the Central Luzon Corridor.
ADB’s Philippines Director, Pavit Ramachandran, highlighted that this project will significantly contribute to sustaining the country’s growth pace and attracting new investments. Additionally, the project offers considerable opportunities for enhancing living conditions for the local population and creating job opportunities.
The project’s first phase was approved in 2019 with $1.3 billion funding. The Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is collaborating to provide technical and mechanical systems.
This project is a crucial step towards modernizing the Philippines’ transport system and establishing a world-class mass transportation network.