Philippines to open MRT-3 concession bidding next year

MANILA — The Department of Transportation will launch a bidding process next year for the concession to operate and maintain Metro Rail Transit Line 3, one of the Philippines' busiest commuter rail systems, officials said Friday.

The 103.6-billion-peso concession represents a major infrastructure initiative under a public-private partnership model, according to a statement from the agency. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the move would bring necessary expertise and fresh investment to the metro line, which has faced chronic maintenance challenges and service disruptions.

"Through public-private partnership, we bring in the expertise and investment this line needs," Lopez said in the agency statement.

The MRT-3, which runs north-south through Metro Manila's central business districts, serves hundreds of thousands of passengers daily. The aging system has long suffered from overcrowding and equipment breakdowns, prompting the government to pursue private sector involvement for rehabilitation and operational improvements.

Details regarding the bidding timeline, qualification requirements, and contract terms are expected to be announced in the coming months as the DOTr proceeds with concession preparations.