All Aboard: Mindanao Railway Project Steams Ahead with Presidential Backing

COURTESY: https://www.pna.gov.ph

Hey there, travel enthusiasts and Mindanao supporters! Have you heard the latest buzz? President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has made it abundantly clear: the Mindanao Railway Project (MRP) is moving forward, full steam ahead! Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno confirmed this on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, during a press briefing in Davao City. Despite encountering some pesky funding issues, the President's directive is crystal clear—this railway project is not stopping anytime soon.

Magno shared that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has been working tirelessly to fix both the technical descriptions and funding for the project. Even though the funding is still being ironed out, the DOTr is exploring alternative sources like Official Development Assistance (ODA) from foreign governments and international banks. Talk about resourcefulness!

Now, let's dive into some of the nitty-gritty details. According to Secretary Magno, the DOTr is not just considering the feasibility of the Mindanao Railway Project; they're evaluating the suitability of the existing design. Initially, the plan was to use a diesel-powered train, but let's be real—most modern rail systems are electric-powered. So, the DOTr is currently studying the project's design to ensure it's up-to-date and efficient.

DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista emphasized that the focus is on the applicability of the existing design, ensuring it meets today's standards. This isn't just about making the railway work; it's about making it work well. And with modern, electric-powered trains, Mindanao is set to join the ranks of regions with state-of-the-art public transportation.

Alright, so what's happening first? Phase 1 of the MRP kicks off with pre-construction activities in the cities of Davao, Tagum, and Digos. Land acquisition for the project is already underway, spanning from Tagum to Digos via Davao City. Imagine the excitement in these areas as they prepare to become the first stops on this epic railway journey!

This initial phase is no small feat. It includes eight stations, covering a distance of 100.2 kilometers, and comes with a projected cost of PHP81.6 billion. Once completed, it’s expected to serve about 122,000 passengers daily. Not only will it make commutes easier, but it will also cut travel time from Tagum City to Digos City from three hours to just one hour. Talk about a time saver!

But wait, there's more! The Mindanao Railway Project isn't just stopping at Davao, Tagum, and Digos. The entire project will eventually cover a whopping 1,544 kilometers, connecting key areas in Mindanao such as General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Cotabato, Zamboanga, Butuan, Surigao, and Malaybalay. This isn't just a railway; it's a transformative infrastructure project set to revolutionize travel and commerce across Mindanao.

Magno assured Mindanaoans that the current administration is fully committed to implementing major infrastructure projects in the region. He emphasized his dedication to coordinating with all the agencies involved to ensure that projects like the MRP progress smoothly. “We are here specifically upon the instructions of the Office of the President to identify and pursue potential projects for Mindanao,” he said.

In the grand scheme of things, the Mindanao Railway Project is more than just tracks and trains. It's a promise of progress, a commitment to better connectivity, and a step towards a brighter future for Mindanao. With President Marcos Jr.'s clear directives and the relentless efforts of the DOTr and MinDA, the dream of a connected Mindanao is becoming a reality.

So, whether you're a daily commuter, a business owner, or just someone who loves to travel, the MRP is set to make life easier and more exciting. Get ready to hop on board and experience the transformation firsthand. Mindanao, your railway revolution is just around the corner!