The Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Philippines has announced a significant acceleration in the construction of relocation sites for families displaced by the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project across Bulacan and Pampanga. This move aims to ensure a swift and orderly transition for affected households.
Government Directive to Fast-Track Relocation
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez emphasized that the agency is prioritizing the timely transfer of families to these new sites. The initiative follows a direct order from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has instructed the DOTr, alongside other government bodies and local government units, to expedite the development of relocation areas equipped with housing and essential community amenities.
Key Relocation Site Details
The primary relocation site, named "El Nuevo De Municipio de Calumpit," is a collaborative effort between the DOTr and local authorities. This facility is designed to house 637 families from Calumpit and Malolos in Bulacan, as well as Apalit and Minalin in Pampanga. Infrastructure progress is already underway, with the road embankment leading to the site completed. Construction is scheduled to commence in April, targeting full completion by 2027.
The Calumpit municipal government has been assigned responsibility for social preparation activities to facilitate the smooth relocation of families. The project will feature six four-storey buildings and comprehensive facilities, including a basketball court, parks, and playgrounds to foster community well-being.
Expansion Across NSCR Sections
Beyond this site, the DOTr is developing three additional relocation sites for the northern segment of the NSCR: two in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, and one in Cutud, Angeles City. Overall, the relocation effort will impact a substantial number of families, with 4,515 set to be relocated in the north and 12,210 in the south.
Addressing Concerns and Ensuring Timely Execution
Assistant Secretary for Right-of-Way and Site Acquisition IC Calaguas highlighted that her office is actively resolving issues to prevent delays in both the relocation sites and the broader NSCR project. Recent inspections of the Calumpit site were conducted by Calumpit Mayor Glorime Faustino, Assistant Secretary Calaguas, and other local officials to monitor progress firsthand.
The DOTr is also coordinating with key agencies such as the National Housing Authority, Social Housing Finance Corporation, and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development to advance other relocation projects, ensuring a holistic approach to housing and urban development for displaced communities.
