Government set to award consultants for MRT-4

MANILA, Philippines — The government is set to award next month consultants for the design and build of the P59.3-billion MRT-4 project, but start of construction of the new Metro rail line that would link parts of eastern Metro Manila and the province of Rizal may be moved to next year.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr)  was previously targeting to commence the construction of the MRT-4 this year, with the project seen  operational by 2025.

“Construction maybe next year,” Transportation Undersecretary for planning Ruben Reinoso told The STAR when asked if the project is still on target to commence construction this year.

“Design and build consultants will be on board this March. Consultants for design and build  was funded through Asian Development Bank (ADB) technical assistance loan, and is expected to be awarded this March,” he said.

The MRT-4 project was approved by the Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee in December 2019. It was given the green light by the National Economic and Development Authority Board   in January last year.

It will be funded by an official development assistance from the ADB, with the DOTr as proponent.

The project aims to address the worsening traffic condition and inadequate road capacities in the densely-populated areas of eastern Metro Manila to include parts of Quezon City, San Juan City, Mandaluyong City, Pasig City and the Ortigas Center.

The line will also link eastern Metro Manila with the neighboring municipalities of Cainta and Taytay in Rizal.