The Department of Transportation (DOTr) began the demolition on Thursday of several Philippine National Railways (PNR) stations from Santa Mesa, Manila, to Cabuyao, Laguna, as part of the ongoing construction of the southern segment of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project.
Acting DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the simultaneous demolition aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to fast-track major transportation infrastructure projects that will benefit millions of Filipino commuters. “The removal of these aging stations is a crucial step toward building a safer, faster, and more efficient railway system,” Lopez said.
The affected stations include Cabuyao, Santa Rosa, Alabang, Bicutan, Blumentritt, Sucat, Muntinlupa, Biñan, San Pedro, and Mamatid. The department confirmed that communities impacted by the demolition have been informed, with relocation and assistance programs already in place where necessary.
The NSCR will span over 147 kilometers once completed, connecting Clark in Pampanga to Calamba in Laguna. The project is expected to serve more than 800,000 passengers daily. According to the DOTr, full completion is targeted for 2032, with major segments to be finished earlier—the Malolos–Valenzuela segment by 2027, and the Malolos–Clark segment by 2028.
The department appealed for public understanding and cooperation as work continues. Despite short-term disruptions, the DOTr emphasized that the long-term outcome will be a modern railway system that significantly improves daily travel for Metro Manila and nearby provinces.–Cali Demi
