The North-South Commuter Railway’s first segment, running from Valenzuela to Malolos across seven stations, is targeting partial operations in the last quarter of 2027, with the fully elevated design ensuring the line remains operational even during the heaviest rains and flooding that have historically paralyzed Metro Manila’s road-based transport.
Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John “TJ” Batan disclosed this in an interview on DZRH News program Special on Saturday on August 29, as part of the DZRH SONA 2026 Series featuring the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
The railways undersecretary said the NSCR was specifically designed with flood levels factored into its elevated structure, meaning commuters will be able to ride the train safely on days when the surrounding roads are impassable.
“Ito po kasing NSCR natin ay fully elevated. At dun po sa disenyo ay talagang kinonsider natin yung level po ng mga baha para masigurado na sa mga araw tulad po ngayon na malakas ang ulan ay ligtas at convenient po yung magiging biyahe nung ating mga pasahero,” Batan said.
He confirmed that the N2 segment—covering Apalit, Calumpit, San Fernando, Angeles, and Clark—is also fully elevated, ensuring flood-free operations along its entire length as well.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Lopez said civil contractors are being pushed hard to meet the Q4 2027 target, with the department committed to delivering at least within the first quarter of 2028 at the latest if any minor slippage occurs.
“Talaga pong pinupukpok natin ang mga civil contractors natin diyan. At kung mag-slide man kahit papaano, we make sure na ang the latest that it will slide is mga first quarter of 2028,” Lopez said.
Batan said each NSCR station spans one full hectare—compared to the 300 to 500 square meters typical of existing MRT and LRT stations—enabling transit-oriented development, last-mile connectivity, and partnership with LGUs to generate economic activity around each station.
