MANILA — Today, the Philippines marked a significant step forward in its infrastructure modernization program with three milestone events under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Administration’s Build Better More initiative. These projects – the Taguig City Integrated Terminal Exchange (TCITx), the Southeast Metro Manila Expressway (SEMME) or C6 Expressway Phase 1 Project, and the signing of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Transportation (DOTr) Convergence and Interface Coordination Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) – represent a significant leap towards a more efficient, interconnected, and passenger-centric transportation system.
The TCITx, a state-of-the-art multimodal terminal spanning 5.7 hectares, marks a new era in passenger transport. This world-class facility, developed in partnership with Ayala Land’s Arca South Integrated Terminals, Inc., will serve as a crucial transfer point for an estimated 160,000 passengers and 5,200 vehicles daily, connecting commuters traveling between Laguna, Batangas, and Metro Manila.
Strategically located with interfaces to the SEMME/C5, North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), and Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP), the TCITx will significantly alleviate congestion on major thoroughfares, providing commuters with shorter travel times and a smoother, more comfortable journey. The terminal is expected to commence its operations by 2028.
The Right-of-Way Usage Agreement signing for the SEMME or C6 Expressway Phase 1 Project marks another game-changing infrastructure initiative. This 32.7 km toll road, developed in partnership with San Miguel Corporation, will provide a much-needed alternative route from Parañaque to Quezon City, dramatically reducing travel time from a 1 hour 50 minutes to a mere 26 minutes, and is expected to benefit around 42,477 to 88,338 motorists on a daily basis. This vital infrastructure project will not only ease traffic congestion but also unlock new economic opportunities by improving connectivity and facilitating the movement of goods and services.
Underscoring the administration’s commitment to streamlined and efficient project implementation, the DPWH and DOTr signed a landmark Convergence and Interface Coordination MOA. This agreement strengthens inter-agency collaboration under the “Kalsada tungo sa Paliparan, Riles, at Daungan” or KATUPARAN Convergence Program, paving the way for improved access roads, proactive conflict resolution, and strategic planning between the two agencies.
In his speech, Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista underscored the power of collaboration and the unwavering commitment of the government, private sector, and stakeholders to build a better and more connected Philippines.
“None of these developments would have been possible without the unwavering support and collaboration of our government and private sectors. Your dedication, expertise, and shared commitment to transforming our transportation sector fuel our determination to push boundaries and drive meaningful progress,” Secretary Bautista highlighted.
By investing in modern and efficient transportation networks, the administration is laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth, improved quality of life, and a brighter future for all Filipinos. (PCO)
