DOTr Targets Early MRT-7 Partial Operations

Photo courtesy of Philstar

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) plans a partial launch of six stations of the Metro Rail Transit 7 (MRT-7) from Sacred Heart in Caloocan to Tandang Sora, Quezon City. Transport Secretary Giovanni Lopez highlighted that this phase aims to evaluate vehicle connectivity and passenger mobility. The entire MRT-7 project is expected to be fully operational by the second quarter of 2027, according to the DOTr.

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Currently 83 percent complete, MRT-7 will feature 14 stations linking San Jose del Monte in Bulacan to North Avenue in Quezon City. During the initial operations, Sacred Heart will serve as the temporary northern endpoint until the elevated railway is finished. The project anticipates a daily ridership of 300,000 to 400,000 commuters once fully operational.

San Miguel Corp. is responsible for operating and maintaining the 22-kilometer railway with the assistance of a South Korean company. The project, however, faces challenges, such as the search for a new contractor after ending the previous one’s contract due to delays in civil and electromechanical works at the common station. The DOTr is working closely with the Light Rail Manila Corp. to finalize proposals for system integrations among MRT-7, MRT-3, and Light Rail Transit Line-1.

Secretary Lopez indicated that, should signaling issues arise during the partial launch, efforts will be made to ensure commuter safety and convenience between LRT-1 and MRT-3 by constructing an interim structure. These measures underscore the priority to enhance passenger experience and system efficiency, reported Philstar.

Key Takeaways

• MRT-7's partial operations aim to start between Sacred Heart and Tandang Sora by 2027.

• Full completion is slated for the second quarter of 2027, linking stations from Bulacan to Quezon City.

• DOTr is seeking new contractors due to earlier delays to maintain project momentum.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Philstar · 20 Feb 2026