Coordination between national, local governments crucial as NSCR project moves forward: DOTr chief Dizon

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso on Tuesday, August 12, announced the start of clearing operations along Old Antipolo Street for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project, marking a breakthrough in a segment delayed due to right-of-way (ROW) issues.

On Domagoso’s very first day after returning as Mayor, Dizon sought the city government’s approval to begin work in the critical Antipolo Street section of the 147-kilometer railway project.

“The next day, in one day, nakuha natin agad approval ni Yorme,” Dizon said. “Kapag nagtulungan local government at national government, umaandar ang mga proyekto nang mabilis.”

The Transportation chief noted that through coordination with the Manila City Mayor’s leadership and the work of project engineers, the original ROW acquisition plan—which would have required demolishing half of the houses in the area—was revised.

“Mase-save na natin ang mga bahay dito, pati simbahan,” Dizon said, adding that narrowing the ROW requirements would also spare other community structures and ease the process for the local government.

Domagoso, for his part, expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for ensuring that the long-delayed project would move forward, and to Dizon for his decisive action.

“We’ve tried to show our support by approving the clearing operation, that the city interposes no objection to the project,” the Mayor said. “We want to match the energy of Secretary Vince. The City Government will support 100%.”

Domagoso also praised the revised engineering plan, which will protect key properties including churches and schools in Old Antipolo Street.

To facilitate construction, the city will immediately implement a one-way traffic scheme on the street through the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau, with plans to make the change permanent via a city ordinance.

He further noted that the project will improve Manila’s flood control system at no cost to the city.

“Madodoble ang aming floodway… maganda ang daloy ng tubig baha from Blumentritt, Sta. Cruz, and Tondo area,” he said, citing engineering presentations from Indonesian and Japanese teams.

Dizon emphasized that beyond the ROW solution, the key lesson was the importance of close coordination between the national and local governments.

“Kung walang koordinasyon, talagang made-delay ang proyekto… sa Maynila, mabilis ang galaw dahil kay Yorme,” he said.

He added that constant engagement with mayors, barangay leaders, and local communities is essential for major infrastructure projects to succeed.

Once operational, the NSCR is expected to serve over 500,000 passengers daily and cut travel time from Calamba, Laguna to Clark, Pampanga to just two hours.