The Philippines and the United States have signed an agreement to pursue the development of the proposed Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) freight railway, a strategic infrastructure project designed to alleviate port congestion in key trade hubs and foster broader economic growth and connectivity.
“Nakikitang magiging solusyon ang SCMB Railway sa pag-decentralize ng port activity at pagbawas sa port congestion,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said on Friday.
“Layon ng proyekto na palakasin pa ang trade at economic development,” Castro said in a Palace press briefing.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon and US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) Acting Director Thomas Hardy signed the agreement in Arlington, Virginia on Wednesday.
In a statement released by the DOTr, the USTDA said that its technical assistance for the SCMB Railway involves transport model development, a port-rail integration study, and an analysis of the legal and institutional framework, among other activities.
Hardy said the project “underscores the US-Philippine alliance’s vital role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. By supporting the development of the SCMB Railway, we are ensuring that key infrastructure will flourish, increasing economic cooperation to develop an essential trading route that will mutually benefit American and Philippine citizens.”
Dizon said the 155-kilometer railway is designed to connect three of the country’s major ports—Manila, Subic Bay, and Batangas—enhancing logistical efficiency and regional connectivity.
“As a freight cargo railway, the SCMB Railway is seen to solve port traffic and congestion in Manila Port, while ensuring the timely movement of products to and from adjacent major transport hubs,” Dizon said.
Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick D. Go said the project enhances the initiative to link major economic hubs under the Luzon Economic Corridor.
“Once operational, the SCMB Railway will attract investments, create new opportunities for businesses, and most importantly, generate quality jobs that will benefit millions of Filipinos,” Go said. | PND
