BUSINESS
Advocates Philippines
All Aboard! ADB Greenlights Final S1.45B Funding For Malolos-Clark Railway Project
Photo credit: ADB
Big moves are happening in Philippine transportation—literally. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) just gave the green light on a whopping $1.45 billion in funding for the Malolos–Clark Railway Project (MCRP), sealing the deal as the second and final tranche of its massive financing commitment.
If you’ve ever dreamed of hopping on a fast, eco-friendly train that takes you from Central Luzon to the metro (or even to the airport!) without the headache of traffic, then this is the project to watch.
The Malolos–Clark line is a 53.1-kilometer stretch of the even more ambitious 163-km North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR). This isn’t just another train project—it’s poised to reshape mass transportation in the country using disaster-resilient designs and state-of-the-art tech. The MCRP will include regular commuter trains, express trains (for high-traffic stations), and—get this—the country’s first airport express trains, connecting directly to Clark International Airport. Talk about leveling up.
“This is one of the biggest project financings ADB has ever done in Asia and the Pacific,” said ADB Philippines Country Director Pavit Ramachandran. “It’s a huge step toward a world-class transport system that can attract investment, create jobs, and boost economic growth.”
But beyond the cool factor of airport express trains, there’s a real environmental impact here. Shifting more people from private vehicles to mass transit means lower greenhouse gas emissions—a win for both commuters and the planet.
And let’s not forget how this will help decongest Metro Manila and spark regional development. The MCRP will link up to the Central Luzon Corridor, unlocking new opportunities for businesses and communities along the way.
The first tranche of the financing, $1.3 billion, was approved in 2019 and has already been fully utilized. Now, with this final chunk in place, it’s full steam ahead.
ADB isn’t going it alone—Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is on board too, providing the actual rolling stock (yup, the trains!) and key systems like the track, electrical, and mechanical components.
And just to make sure no one is left behind, ADB will also continue providing livelihood support and technical help for vulnerable communities affected by the construction.
This project is more than just building tracks and stations. It’s about connecting lives, greening the future, and making daily commutes a whole lot better.
Now that’s a train we can all get behind.
If you’ve ever dreamed of hopping on a fast, eco-friendly train that takes you from Central Luzon to the metro (or even to the airport!) without the headache of traffic, then this is the project to watch.
The Malolos–Clark line is a 53.1-kilometer stretch of the even more ambitious 163-km North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR). This isn’t just another train project—it’s poised to reshape mass transportation in the country using disaster-resilient designs and state-of-the-art tech. The MCRP will include regular commuter trains, express trains (for high-traffic stations), and—get this—the country’s first airport express trains, connecting directly to Clark International Airport. Talk about leveling up.
“This is one of the biggest project financings ADB has ever done in Asia and the Pacific,” said ADB Philippines Country Director Pavit Ramachandran. “It’s a huge step toward a world-class transport system that can attract investment, create jobs, and boost economic growth.”
But beyond the cool factor of airport express trains, there’s a real environmental impact here. Shifting more people from private vehicles to mass transit means lower greenhouse gas emissions—a win for both commuters and the planet.
And let’s not forget how this will help decongest Metro Manila and spark regional development. The MCRP will link up to the Central Luzon Corridor, unlocking new opportunities for businesses and communities along the way.
The first tranche of the financing, $1.3 billion, was approved in 2019 and has already been fully utilized. Now, with this final chunk in place, it’s full steam ahead.
ADB isn’t going it alone—Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is on board too, providing the actual rolling stock (yup, the trains!) and key systems like the track, electrical, and mechanical components.
And just to make sure no one is left behind, ADB will also continue providing livelihood support and technical help for vulnerable communities affected by the construction.
This project is more than just building tracks and stations. It’s about connecting lives, greening the future, and making daily commutes a whole lot better.
Now that’s a train we can all get behind.
Apr 16, 2025
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
