The ADB’s latest funding marks a major milestone for the Malolos–Clark Railway Project, reinforcing the Philippines’ commitment to modern infrastructure development.
MANILA, Philippines (April 16, 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has given the green light to the final $1.45 billion tranche of financing for the Malolos–Clark Railway Project (MCRP)—completing its multi-tranche commitment of $2.75 billion, and ensuring full funding for one of the Philippines’ most transformative transportation infrastructure projects to date.
The Malolos–Clark Railway, a 53.1-kilometer elevated commuter line connecting Malolos in Bulacan to Clark International Airport in Pampanga, is a core segment of the larger 163-kilometer North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR) system. The project promises to reshape mass transit in Luzon, significantly reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila, and lower greenhouse gas emissions through the shift from private vehicles to electrified rail.
“This major transformative project will spur more investments, create jobs, and contribute to sustaining the country’s growth momentum,” said Pavit Ramachandran, ADB Country Director for the Philippines. “The Malolos–Clark Railway Project is one of ADB’s largest infrastructure financings in the entire Asia-Pacific region. We are proud to partner with the Philippine government in turning the vision of a world-class transportation system into reality.”
Features and Benefits
Engineered with disaster-resilient features—including flood- and earthquake-resistant infrastructure—the MCRP is designed to offer three types of rail services:
- Regular commuter trains serving daily passengers
- Express trains for high-demand stops
- Airport express trains, which will be the first of their kind in the country, directly linking travelers to Clark International Airport
The project aligns with the Philippine government’s flagship “Build, Better, More” program and is co-financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which is providing the railway’s rolling stock and systems such as track, electrical, and mechanical components.
Timeline and Regional Impact
Partial operations of the North–South Commuter Railway are expected to commence by the third quarter of 2026, with full system-wide operations projected by 2029. Beyond easing urban congestion, the MCRP is also positioned to boost regional economic integration by creating robust transport linkages across Central Luzon.
ADB is also continuing to support the southern leg of the NSCR—the South Commuter Railway Project—further strengthening connectivity between Metro Manila and outlying provinces.
In addition to infrastructure development, ADB will assist in implementing livelihood support programs for vulnerable communities impacted by construction activities, reinforcing its inclusive approach to project development.
Looking Ahead: ADB’s Broader Commitments
The Malolos–Clark Railway is just one of several high-impact projects in ADB’s pipeline for the Philippines. In 2025, the bank is preparing to approve three additional major loans:
- $400 million for the REFUEL program (Reducing Food Insecurity and Undernutrition with Electronic Vouchers)
- $400 million for the Marine Ecosystems for Blue Economy Development Program
- $300 million for Universal Health Care expansion
Founded in 1966 and owned by 69 member countries—49 from Asia and the Pacific—ADB remains a cornerstone partner in promoting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across the region.
With the final financing secured, the Malolos–Clark Railway Project now moves full speed ahead, promising to deliver faster, safer, and greener transportation options for millions of Filipinos—and opening new tracks toward economic recovery and regional connectivity.
