The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), along with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced the funding for technical assistance for Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) Railway’s construction.
Some of the assistance brought by the USTDA includes transport model development, port-rail integration study and legal and institutional framework analysis, according to the agreement made on June 26 between the two parties.
Moreover, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick D. Go, the railway will boost the connection between major linking hubs under the Luzon Economic Corridor.
Once operational, the SCMB Railway will attract investments, create new opportunities for businesses, and most importantly, generate quality jobs that will benefit millions of Filipinos,” Go stated.
Additionally, USTDA Acting Director Thomas R. Hardy stated that through the development of the SCMB Railway, the economy will also prosper.
“By supporting the development of the SCMB Railway, we are ensuring that key infrastructure will flourish, increasing economic cooperation to develop an essential trading route that will mutually benefit American and Philippine citizens,” said Hardy.
With the railway’s construction, it aims to decentralize Manila Port, reducing traffic in the area while connecting the three major ports in Luzon, said DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon.
“The Philippine government extends its gratitude to USTDA for their technical assistance in developing the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway. This railway will not only decongest the Manila Port but will also connect the seaport to Subic Bay and Batangas Port,” Dizon stated. | via Florence Alfonso | Photo via DOTr
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