The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is targeting the second quarter of 2027 for the bidding process to select a private operator for Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3), extending the government’s efforts to improve the operations and maintenance of one of Metro Manila’s busiest railway systems. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the planned public-private partnership would bring private-sector expertise into the management of the railway, which serves more than 388,000 passengers daily across 13 stations along EDSA. The proposed concession is expected to focus on improving train reliability, increasing fleet availability, and reducing passenger waiting times.
The railway returned to government control in July 2025, following the expiration of its build-lease-transfer agreement with Metro Rail Transit Corporation. The DOTr is now pursuing a separate operations and maintenance contract for MRT-3 rather than combining it with Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2). Meanwhile, the department is also targeting the first or second quarter of 2027 to complete bidding for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), with approximately seven prospective parties reportedly participating in preliminary procurement activities. Lopez cautioned that the schedules remain subject to evaluation, bidder clarifications, regulatory approvals, and other procurement requirements.
For daily commuters, the proposed private-sector participation could eventually translate into more dependable train services, shorter queues, and fewer disruptions, although these improvements will depend on the final contract and the operator’s performance. No new private operator has been selected, and the timetable does not guarantee an immediate change in services or fares. With MRT-3 continuing to play a crucial role in Metro Manila’s transportation network, the government’s next challenge is ensuring that the bidding process delivers measurable improvements in safety, efficiency, and passenger experience.
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