FILE PHOTO: This February 5, 2021, photo shows the cutter head of the Tunnel Boring Machine No. 1 “Kaunlaran” that arrived at the Manila Harbor Center in Port Area, Manila. This would be used for the Metro Manila Subway Project Phase 1. It will break, cut, and grind rocks and soil by rotating its 36-piece disc cutter. INQUIRER PHOTO / RICHARD A. REYES
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other officials like Senator Mark Villar attended the launching of the Metro Manila Subway Project’s Tunnel Boring Machine on Monday.
“Today we witnessed another milestone in the Subway Project. This will kickstart the tunneling works for the subway project which will level up public transportation in our country,” Villar said.
CP 101 of the Metro Manila Subway Project consists of the following stations: East Valenzuela Station, Quirino Highway Station, Tandang Sora Station, and North Avenue Station – all of which are ongoing.
“We appreciate all the efforts of PBBM (Marcos). We can see that the Build Better More Program is all systems go. The Metro Manila Subway Project will definitely provide an accessible, affordable, comfortable, and safe travel for the Filipino people,” Villar added.
READ: DOTr unveils first tunnel boring machine for Metro Manila Subway project
Marcos also recognized Villar as one of the contributors to the success of the Mega Manila Subway Project in his capacity as former DPWH Secretary.
“Senator Mark Villar has played a special role for us to come to this day as he was the former Secretary of the Department of Public Works and had a big hand in getting this project going and keeping it going so that we could continue it until its final fruition” Marcos said.
“We thank Mr. President for the confidence and support. Rest assured that we will help in any capacity to make sure that the Build Better More Program is realized.” Villar responded.
READ: Tunnel construction for Metro Manila Subway begins
Other officials present during the launch were Senators Win Gatchalian and JV Ejercito, Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista, Rep. Rex Gatchalian, Mayor Wes Gatchalian, and representatives from JICA and other contractors.