Transport Manila to Clark in 45 Minutes: A New Era for Filipino Commuters

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Photo courtesy of Inquirer

 

The ambitious North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project promises to revolutionise travel in the Philippines, with journeys from Manila to Clark Airport in Pampanga set to take just 45 minutes once completed in 2032.

 

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno announced this during a recent press briefing. The event followed clearing operations along Old Antipolo Road, paving the way for the railway's construction.

 

For Manila residents, the NSCR will cut travel time significantly. As Mayor Moreno explained, "On a good day, you can ride from Solis Station with your suitcase and end up inside Clark Airport in about 45 minutes."

 

This substantial reduction in travel time promises daily ease for commuters and marks a major improvement in Manila's transport system.

 

Beyond the journey to Clark, the NSCR aims to ease daily commutes within Manila. According to Dizon, rides from Solis to Buendia or Magallanes will take merely 15 minutes, making life simpler for city dwellers.

 

"We want commuting to become convenient for our countrymen in Makati and beyond," he stated.

 

The full 190-kilometre NSCR—spanning Clark to Calamba, Laguna—is set for completion by 2032. However, Dizon is optimistic about finishing the Solis to Blumentritt section by 2028, bringing early benefits to Manila residents.

 

The railway project isn’t solely about trains. An elevated track design will allow for a flood control system underneath, alongside new bike and pedestrian lanes. "This offers safe passage and protection from flooding for locals," Dizon noted.

 

Additionally, mini parks, funded by the Department of Transportation, are planned to enhance urban spaces.

 

The project faced delays due to right-of-way issues, but these have been resolved without major upheaval to local communities. Dizon confirmed that homes, schools, and churches, previously at risk, will now remain intact.

 

"Thanks to collaborative planning, over 50 structures are saved," Moreno added. This resolution is expected to bolster community support for the railway.

 

As construction progresses, Moreno emphasises the importance of community involvement. "Assurances like these help ensure local support for such significant projects," he said.

 

The NSCR is set to transform commuter life, offering swift, efficient travel across major urban areas while preserving local communities and enhancing city infrastructure. With phased construction and community-focused development, the project is more than just a railway—it's a leap towards a modern transport future.

 

By 2032, the dream of rapid transit across Luzon will be a reality, marking a significant step forward for the Philippines' infrastructure and its people.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Inquirer 2025-08-13