The Philippine government is turning to private sector participation to revive the long-delayed Mindanao Railway Project (MRP) after stepping away from its initial plan for Chinese-funded development. According to the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is currently reassessing the railway’s design and financing framework, now considering a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The original blueprint—a single-track diesel-powered system—is also under review for potential realignment and electrification in response to public concerns.
While a definitive project timeline is still pending, both national and local authorities continue to prioritize the MRP. Following the cancellation of Chinese Official Development Assistance (ODA) in late 2023, the government has opened the door to unsolicited proposals, and early signs suggest significant foreign investor interest. The government now leans toward a PPP structure rather than acquiring new debt. If this approach moves forward, fare control mechanisms will be implemented to ensure affordability for commuters. The Tagum-Davao-Digos segment alone is projected to cost PHP 83 billion (US$1.42 billion) and aims to slash travel times from 3.5 hours to just 1.5 hours once completed.
The Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines issued the Notice of Cancellation of the procurement activities for the Independent Consultant for the implementation monitoring of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport PPP Project.
Read moreThe City Government of Bacoor has invited interested parties to submit comparative proposals for the Bacoor Digitalized Traffic Enforcement Project, following the approval of the unsolicited proposal from QPAX Traffic Systems Inc.
Read moreThe Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has invited interested parties to submit comparative proposals for the Boracay Bridge Project in the Philippines.
Read moreThe Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines participated as a resource speaker in a public consultation organized by the Baguio City Council for the Baguio City Public Market Redevelopment PPP project.
Read moreThe Public-Private Partnership Pre-Qualification Bids and Awards Committee (PBAC) has invited local and international corporations (Challengers) to submit comparative proposals under a Comparative Challenge Process under the PPP Code and its IRR for the Redevelopment of the General Santos City Central Public Market.
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