Law Summary
Objectives and Context of the Project
- The project aims to decongest Metro Manila through railway and road development.
- It supports the government's initiative to establish new government centers and modernize infrastructure.
- Establishing a national railway system is aligned with the rejuvenation and reengineering of the country’s physical infrastructure.
Key Issues Identified for Resolution
- Risks posed by the existing Philippine National Railways (PNR) system, particularly at 97 level-road crossings (46 from Caloocan to Alabang and 51 from Alabang to Calamba).
- Structural integrity and repair of 76 bridges (37 from Caloocan to Alabang and 39 from Alabang to Calamba).
- Standardization of the railway track gauge, whether to retain the existing narrow gauge or convert to standard gauge.
- Ensuring compatibility between signaling and communication systems of the Northrail and Southrail lines.
- Interconnection of various rail systems including Metro Rail Transit (MRT), Light Rail Transit (LRT), Northrail at Sangandaan, and the links to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Manila Domestic Airport.
- Relocation plans for informal settlers affected by the project.
Specific Tasks of the DOTC
- Conduct studies and propose solutions addressing the continued dangers at railway crossings.
- Manage repair and maintenance plans for identified bridges.
- Evaluate and decide on track gauge standardization.
- Coordinate integration of signaling and communication systems across north and south rail lines.
- Facilitate interconnection of MRT, LRT, Northrail, and airport transit systems.
- Oversee the relocation process of informal settlers impacted by railway development.
Inter-agency Coordination and Support
- DOTC is to seek and coordinate support from several agencies and entities, notably:
- National Economic Development Authority (NEDA)
- Department of Finance (DOF)
- Department of Budget and Management (DBM)
- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)
- Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA)
- Philippine National Railways (PNR)
- National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC)
- National Housing Authority (NHA)
- Local government representatives from Caloocan, Manila, Pasay, Taguig, Muntinlupa, Calamba, and the Province of Laguna
Reporting Requirements
- The DOTC, alone or via collaborating agencies, shall submit an initial report and recommendations to the Office of the President within two months from convening.
Authority to Call for Assistance
- DOTC is authorized to request assistance from any other government agencies deemed necessary for fulfilling its responsibilities.
- All government agencies are directed to fully cooperate with DOTC in the project’s implementation.
Effectivity
- This administrative order takes effect immediately upon issuance, signifying urgency and priority in project execution.