The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has announced plans to back additional railway, road, and bridge projects in the Philippines, depending on government proposals. There are no new discussions currently underway, but it is emphasised that support will align with requests from the Philippine government.
At present, JICA is financing major projects such as the North–South Commuter Railway, Metro Manila Subway, rehabilitation of MRT-3, and the extension of LRT-1. It is also involved in technical cooperation with the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to enhance transport modernisation.
JICA also cited the 30-year railway master plan as a key step in modernising the country’s transport system. The plan, backed by a JPY300 million commitment from JICA in 2023, aims to align Philippine rail standards with global practices. While the completion timeline has not been finalised, JICA earlier indicated a target of 2026.