The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Friday acknowledged exploring the likelihood of redesigning the San Jose del Monte station of Line 7 of the Metro Rail Transit (MRT-7) project rather than relocate it as proposed by the local government of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
“We’re looking into that. There’s no final decision yet but the San Jose Del Monte LGU is open to it,” transport undersecretary for railways, Jeremy Regino, said.
According to Regino, San Miguel Corp. committed to present an updated evaluation of the MRT 7 San Jose Del Monte station.
“If it is okay with the DOTr, we will go back to the San Jose LGU and present the adjusted proposal,” Regino said, quickly adding that the new design will ensure against any obstruction on the road.
“So, with no obstruction on the road, we then avoid traffic,” he said.
San Jose Del Monte Mayor Arthur Robes previously proposed to relocate parts of the MRT-7 line due to traffic congestion concerns in the area.
The city mayor said the proposed line follows the Quirino Highway, a key thoroughfare used by a significant number of commuters traveling to and from Metro Manila.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said constructing the 22-kilometer line along the proposed alignment would delay the project and reset its formal opening in 2027 to 2028 instead.
Regino stressed that San Miguel remains on track to a partial MRT opening by the end of 2025.
“They’re moving heaven and earth to be able to meet that timeline. It’s a tight timeline but they’re doing their best to meet it,” he added.
The MRT-7 spans over 22 kilometers and encompasses 14 stations, commencing from North Ave. in Quezon City and concluding at San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
The line is expected to serve 800,000 passengers daily.
