NEDA approves P25 B worth of infra projects

MANILA, Philippines - The Cabinet-level National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) board approved major infrastructure projects worth about P25 billion as part of the government’s efforts to improve the country’s airport and railway systems.

Outgoing Transportation Secretary Mar Roxas said the NEDA board chaired by President Aquino approved the Light Rail Transit (LRT) 2 East Extension project, the acquisition of new trains for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3), the Bicol International Airport in Daraga, Albay, and the New Bohol Airport in Panglao.

Roxas who is set to take over the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) said the crucial infrastructure projects would push through with the NEDA approval.

For one, the LRT Line 2 East extension project worth P9.6 billion would make travel from Rizal province to Manila easier and faster.

Two new terminals would be added to the existing LRT Line 2 that stretches from Claro M. Recto Avenue in Manila to Santolan in Pasig City. Under the approved project, a 4.19-kilometer extension rail would be constructed and two more stations – Emerald Drive in Cainta, and Masinag Junction in Antipolo City – would be added.

On the other hand, the NEDA board also approved the New Bohol Airport in Panglao that is expected to cost P7.5 billion and the Bicol International Airport in Daraga, Albay worth P4.8 billion.

The construction of the Bicol International Airport project is intended to replace the existing Legaspi Airport that is hampered by limitations and safety concerns. It involves the construction of landside and airside facilities, passenger and cargo terminal buildings and related facilities; installation of security and navigational aids equipment; preparation of detailed engineering design, and acquisition of land for the airport compound.

Roxas said the airports in Albay and Panglao as well as the LRT 2 East extension project have been previously listed for public bidding under the government’s PPP program.

The Aquino administration is confident that it would be able to roll out eight PPP projects by the end of the year as three projects have already been rolled out while five others would be opened for bidding.

The PPP center was able to bid out the $239 million-worth PPP for School Infrastructure Project Phase I, while the $1.4- billion LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension and O&M (operations and management) and $377.5 million NAIA Expressway Phase II are undergoing pre-qualification.