Project Profile: Malolos-Clark Railway (NSCR Phase 2)

The Malolos-Clark Railway Project (MCRP) is a large-scale infrastructure initiative constructing a 53.1-kilometer, high-speed standard gauge railway to connect Malolos, Bulacan with the Clark economic zone in the Philippines. As a critical segment of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) network, the project establishes the country’s first airport express link and is engineered to transform regional transport efficiency and foster economic development in Central Luzon.

Project Fact Sheet

Technical Specifications

The MCRP’s core infrastructure consists of a 51.2 km primarily elevated double-track line and a 1.9 km extension, engineered within a 60-meter right-of-way to accommodate future expansion. A key design feature is the underground station providing direct, seamless access to the Clark International Airport terminal. The project includes seven modern stations equipped with automated fare collection systems, elevators, and escalators. Rolling stock comprises state-of-the-art Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) configured for three service types: commuter, express commuter, and airport limited express. The signaling and communications systems are being delivered by Alstom. Support infrastructure includes a 40-hectare maintenance depot and operations control center located in Sacobia, ensuring high levels of operational availability and safety.

Key Takeaways

• Economic Catalyst: By reducing Manila-Clark travel time to under one hour, the MCRP is projected to significantly boost investment, tourism, and logistics within the Clark economic corridor and the broader Central Luzon region.
• Decongestion & Environmental Impact: With a design capacity of 342,000 passengers daily, the railway will substantially reduce vehicular traffic along the Manila-Clark corridor, leading to lower carbon emissions and improved air quality.
• Regional Connectivity Hub: The project is a vital component of the 147-km North-South Commuter Railway system, integrating Clark with Metro Manila and Calamba and creating a unified, efficient public transport network across the island of Luzon.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Malolos-Clark Railway be open?

While construction is progressing across multiple contract packages, the full opening of the Malolos-Clark Railway Project is anticipated for 2027-2028. Phased openings of certain segments may occur earlier as construction and systems testing are completed.

Who is building the Malolos-Clark Railway?

The project is being constructed by a consortium of leading international engineering firms. Key contractors include Acciona from Spain, POSCO Engineering & Construction and Hyundai E&C from South Korea for major civil works, while France’s Alstom, via Colas Rail, is supplying the crucial signaling and track systems.