NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
DILG Urged To Investigate Manila Barangay Executives Hindering NSCR Project Progress
FILE
In a concerning development surrounding the North South Commuter Railways (NSCR) project, certain barangay officials from the City of Manila have allegedly impeded its execution, prompting calls for immediate intervention from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
Despite overcoming significant funding and technical obstacles, Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) now faces resistance primarily from informal settlers, compounded by reports of non-cooperation from local authorities.
"It's disheartening to witness hindrances to such a vital infrastructure endeavor," remarked an official involved in the project. "We urge Secretary Benhur Abalos of the DILG to swiftly address this issue and ensure the project's timely completion."
With construction set to commence along the Metro Manila route of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) line, including sections from Governor Pascual to Tutuban and Tutuban to Alabang, the cessation of PNR train operations for five years is imminent to facilitate construction.
The NSCR project promises faster and more efficient travel, significantly alleviating traffic congestion in Metro Manila.
However, the successful implementation hinges on the prompt clearing of PNR rights-of-way (ROW) from physical and human encumbrances, necessitating the cooperation of barangay officials.
"The NSCR is pivotal to our transportation infrastructure, we cannot allow bureaucratic hurdles to impede progress, the official added."
While acknowledging the challenges faced by informal settlers, government agencies are committed to providing adequate compensation and relocation assistance.
Nevertheless, the reported obstructionism by certain barangay officials impedes this process, delaying the project and incurring unnecessary costs.
Secretary Abalos is urged to remind barangay executives of their obligation to support national government initiatives for the greater good. Failure to cooperate may result in legal ramifications and prolonged inconvenience for commuters.
As the nation strives towards progress, it is imperative that all stakeholders collaborate harmoniously, prioritizing the collective welfare over individual interests.
Despite overcoming significant funding and technical obstacles, Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) now faces resistance primarily from informal settlers, compounded by reports of non-cooperation from local authorities.
"It's disheartening to witness hindrances to such a vital infrastructure endeavor," remarked an official involved in the project. "We urge Secretary Benhur Abalos of the DILG to swiftly address this issue and ensure the project's timely completion."
With construction set to commence along the Metro Manila route of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) line, including sections from Governor Pascual to Tutuban and Tutuban to Alabang, the cessation of PNR train operations for five years is imminent to facilitate construction.
The NSCR project promises faster and more efficient travel, significantly alleviating traffic congestion in Metro Manila.
However, the successful implementation hinges on the prompt clearing of PNR rights-of-way (ROW) from physical and human encumbrances, necessitating the cooperation of barangay officials.
"The NSCR is pivotal to our transportation infrastructure, we cannot allow bureaucratic hurdles to impede progress, the official added."
While acknowledging the challenges faced by informal settlers, government agencies are committed to providing adequate compensation and relocation assistance.
Nevertheless, the reported obstructionism by certain barangay officials impedes this process, delaying the project and incurring unnecessary costs.
Secretary Abalos is urged to remind barangay executives of their obligation to support national government initiatives for the greater good. Failure to cooperate may result in legal ramifications and prolonged inconvenience for commuters.
As the nation strives towards progress, it is imperative that all stakeholders collaborate harmoniously, prioritizing the collective welfare over individual interests.
Apr 1, 2024
