Relocation sites for families affected by railway project nearing completion

MANILA, Philippines — Relocation sites in Angeles City and Mexico in Pampanga for families affected by the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project are expected to be completed by next year, according to the Department of Transportation.

DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the agency is fast-tracking the construction of houses as the 147-kilometer railway will connect Metro Manila with Pampanga and nearby provinces.

The railway project will be partially operational by the end of 2027.

DOTr Assistant Secretary IC Calaguas said the construction of four low-rise, four-story buildings of the San Fernando View Residences (SFVR) in Mexico town will be completed next month.

The SFVR will have 288 housing units.

Another phase of the SFVR will have six buildings and will be completed in November 2027.

“Some affected residents have been relocated to Mexico and we welcomed them with open arms, although we know it comes with a huge responsibility,” Mexico Mayor Rodencio Gonzales said.

In Angeles, the DOTr partnered with the National Housing Authority for the construction of the city’s first medium-rise relocation site.

The construction of the Casa Angeles is expected to be complete in December 2027. It will have four-story low-rise buildings with 615 housing units.

“This will be a big help to affected families who will not only gain access to affordable housing, but may eventually own the houses they occupy. They will no longer be considered informal settlers,” Angeles Mayor Carmelo Lazatin said.

Calaguas said the DOTr will continue to monitor the construction of relocation sites to ensure timely completion so no family will be displaced.