The San Miguel Corporation has selected 115 engineering graduates from various universities in the country to undergo training for the commercial operations of the Mass Rail Transit (MRT-7) project in 2025.
"MRT-7 promises to be a game-changer for the Philippine transportation landscape, and we are confident our young professionals will set new benchmarks in efficiency, safety, and service excellence," SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang said in a statement.
According to Ang, new graduates from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines' (PUP) Railway Engineering Program have started training, while 40 cadets who topped the evaluation tests were sent to South Korea under the national railway operator Korail, which is a partner of SMC's in the MRT-7 project.
"Investing in the growth, development, and well-being of young local talents is part of our commitment to nation-building and ensuring our country's long-term success and prosperity. We want to be able to provide them with the tools they need to enhance their competencies, prepare them for when the MRT-7 starts operating, and eventually make meaningful contributions to the wider community. I am confident they will not only shine but also redefine standards," said Ang.
More than 500 applicants underwent panel interviews and screening for the program which includes the aptitude test for train operators and traffic controllers.
The 115 candidates who passed began training in March.
The courses include a driving simulator, exposure to core technology for driving and operations, railway control systems, first aid and emergencies, and familiarization with the railway depot.