Philippines Targets 2027 Bids for MRT-3 and Commuter Rail Operations

Philippines, October 2026 – The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is advancing plans to tender operations and maintenance contracts for MRT-3 and NSCR, with bidding timelines expected to extend into the first half of 2027. Officials are consulting prospective bidders to refine requirements and develop contract terms that are workable for both the government and private operators.

For MRT-3, bid submissions are targeted for March 2027, with a contract award expected between June and July. The successful bidder is expected to assume operations by October 2027. The proposed concession covers train operations, infrastructure maintenance, fare collection and commercial rights within station areas, subject to revenue-sharing arrangements with the government.

The NSCR contract is intended to cover the operation and maintenance of trains, stations, depots, guideways and related railway systems. At least 10 companies have expressed interest, including Japanese operators Tokyo Metro, JR East and JR West, French transport group Keolis, rolling stock manufacturer Alstom, and Philippine companies San Miguel Corporation and First Balfour.

The DOTr is conducting market-sounding activities to understand investor requirements and gather feedback before finalising procurement arrangements. The process is intended to help align contract structures with operational needs and encourage participation from experienced railway operators and infrastructure companies.

The government has also indicated that MRT-3 and Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) will not be bundled into a single operations and maintenance contract at this stage, citing differences between the two systems. The planned tenders form part of a broader effort to attract private investment and operational expertise while maintaining government oversight of the country’s expanding rail network.

Source: Traders Union