MANILA — The government and the Villar Group of Companies have agreed on a deal for the donation of land needed for the LRT-1 Cavite extension project, transport officials said Friday.
Following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to expedite the flagship mass transit project, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said the Villar Group accepted its non-negotiable terms for donating two mortgaged parcels essential for the Las Piñas station.
The terms require an unconditional permit to enter, a waiver of subrogation, and mortgage cancellation within six months. Formal agreements are expected this month, clearing the way for construction next year.
Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez said he welcomes the breakthrough.
“This development is good for DOTr, LRMC (Light Rail Manila Corporation, LRTA (Light Rail Transit Authority) and the Villar Group, but best for the commuting public. Itong pagkakasundo natin, talagang commuters ang pangunahing makikinabang, at ‘yun naman talaga dapat ang priority natin,” Banoy said.
He thanked the Villar Group for the deal, which removes a major obstacle for the railway project.
“Nagpapasalamat ang DOTr sa Villar Group of Companies dahil sa inyong cooperation para mapabilis natin itong proseso. Ang laging bilin sa atin ng Pangulo, dapat mapakinabangan na ng commuters ‘yung mga transport projects natin sa lalong madaling panahon at resolbahin na rin ang mga dapat ayusin.”
LRMC President Enrico Benipayo also said the agreement clears a major hurdle for the project.
“I see that there’s this urgency from the government to provide relief for passengers. And on the part of the Villars (Group of Companies) there’s a good sign that they’re talking to the grantors in good faith,” he said.
In November 2024, the government opened to the public five new stations under the first phase of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension project, namely: the Redemptorist-Aseana station, MIA Road station, PITX station, Ninoy Aquino Avenue station and Dr. Santos (Sucat) station.
The next phase will consist of building stations in Las Piñas, Zapote and Bacoor, Cavite.