Over 22 groups show interest in PhP 1.72 billion PPP project for deploying AFCS on Metro Manila’s light railways

The Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) has stated that over 22 groups have formally expressed their interest in a public–private partnership (PPP) project to build a PhP 1.72 billion automated fare collection system (AFCS) for Metro Manila’s light railway. The project involves a 10-year contract to finance, design, construct, operate, and maintain a contactless AFCS for LRT Lines 1 and 2, along with Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT 3). DOTC will announce the pre-qualified bidders on March 6, 2013, and they would be required to submit their technical and financial proposals by June 14, 2013. Notice of the award of the contract will be declared on July 30, 2013. The new fare collection system is expected to become operational in 2015.