The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Tuesday, February 6, said it is seeking funding sources for the delayed Mindanao Railway Project (MRP) after China’s withdrawal of prior funding.
“We decided to pursue Phase 1 of the MRP despite the withdrawal of prior funding commitment from the government of China. While looking for funding sources, various pre-construction activities show we are not dropping the project,” DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said in a press release.
Bautista reported that it tapped the Official Development Assistance (ODA) regarding alternative funding sources from foreign governments and international financial institutions.
The big-ticket project was said to cost P81.6 billion, with a length of 100.2 kilometers with eight stations that would connect the entire island of Mindanao.
It aims to connect major provinces such as Davao, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Cotabato, Zamboanga, Butuan, Surigao, and Malaybalay to catapult Mindanao’s economic boom.
According to the DOTr Secretary, land acquisitions are ongoing and resettlement sites for displaced residents have been identified.
“In fact, the Tagum Train Village is scheduled for turnover to its future residents in the coming months. Livelihood programs are also being prepared for affected families,” he said.
