Jica backs Manila MRT-3 upgrade with Yen 21.6bn loan

As reported by Rail Journal, Manila MRT-3 upgrade will receive further support under a loan agreement. The agreement, signed on March 3, is worth Yen 21.6bn ($US 136.83m). Also, the financing carries an annual interest rate of 0.8%. Repayment runs for 40 years, with a 10-year grace period.

Manila MRT-3 upgrade and maintenance works

The loan will support ongoing maintenance and fund additional improvements on the line. For example, the work includes:

• upgrades to the power supply system
• procurement of new bogie frames for the train fleet
• ballast replacement
• station renovation works
• the acquisition of depot and maintenance equipment

Still, the measures are intended to sustain the system’s improved performance. They are also meant to bring an end to the service disruptions experienced in recent years.

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Jica loan agreement and earlier renovation funding

As JICA notes, it has already invested around Yen 55bn in the MRT-3 renovation project. In addition, one loan was agreed in 2018, worth Yen 38.1bn. Another was agreed in 2023, worth Yen 17.4bn. The first phase of the renovation programme was completed in December 2021.

Manila Metro Line MRT-3 renovation programme

Meanwhile, additional financing has been directed to extend maintenance of the line. At the same time, it has been used for infrastructure enhancements. These include track replacement and rolling stock overhauls. “This continued cooperation will help establish a sustainable, safe, and reliable operations and maintenance structure,” says Jica Philippines chief representative Takashi Baba.

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