THE Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) railway project has received a grant of $1.3 million from Sweden, the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (OSAPIEA) said.
“This partnership between the Philippines and Sweden advances the president’s vision of developing globally competitive logistics infrastructure that will drive investment and inclusive growth,” according to Secretary Frederick D. Go, who heads OSAPIEA.
The funding is a result of an agreement signed between Sweden and the Department of Transportation (DoTr).
“This additional agreement with the DoTr is a remarkable example of synergies and cooperation between public and private efforts,” Swedish Ambassador to the Philippines Anna Ferry said.
“We are proud to support the Philippines’ development goals with Swedish technology and expertise in transportation and provide a boost for sustainable growth and opportunities,” she added.
Through Swedfund International, the Swedish government is funding a feasibility study on signaling systems and operational models for the SCMB railway.
The railway is an anchor infrastructure project of the Luzon Economic Corridor, which aims to connect the major ports of Subic, Manila, and Batangas and strengthen logistics and trade across Luzon.
Mr. Go said that the SCMB railway “will modernize freight transport, boost trade efficiency, and create jobs across the region.”
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez said the railway will provide a dedicated freight transport system connecting the major ports to industrial and economic zones.
“Once realized, it will reduce logistics costs, improve trade efficiency, and advance the administration’s goal of building a more competitive and connected economy,” he added.
According to the OSAPIEA, the Swedish grant complements funding from the US Trade and Development Agency, which supports parallel studies on transport modeling, port-rail integration, and institutional planning.
“The Asian Development Bank will oversee procurement of the consultant for the main feasibility study,” it added. — Justine Irish D. Tabile