Philippine government officials and executives from Japan’s Mitsubishi Corporation broke ground on a major power substation for the Metro Manila Subway on May 5, marking a critical step in the delayed infrastructure project.

Transportation Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon, Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian, and Mitsubishi representatives led the ceremony for the Bulk Supply Substation 1, which will serve as the “backbone” of energy supply for the country’s first underground rail system.

Designed as a two-level facility equipped with dual transformers, the substation in Valenzuela City will connect to power distributor Meralco’s switching station. The infrastructure is expected to support safe and stable operations once the subway becomes operational.

The Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP), a flagship initiative under the government’s “Build Better More” program, has a projected cost of P488 billion. While full operations were initially expected within President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s term, Dizon disclosed in March that the timeline has slipped, citing unresolved right-of-way issues. Partial operations are now likely to begin by 2032.

Once completed, the subway aims to significantly reduce travel time across Metro Manila, allowing commuters more time for family and personal pursuits instead of enduring lengthy daily commutes.