Sara Duterte disappointed over Mindanao Railway delay

Vice President Sara Duterte expressed disappointment over the delay in constructing the Mindanao Railway Project due to funding issues during a press conference on Wednesday.

Duterte emphasized her commitment to continuing the 'Build Build Build' program, highlighting that the railway project is part of larger unfulfilled government obligations and stressed its importance for both Mindanao and the entire country.

The Phase 1 of the project, set to begin in January 2019 and estimated at P81.6 billion, was scheduled to start construction in 2022 but has faced delays due to funding challenges.

In September 2023, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno informed China that the Philippines would no longer pursue loan financing for the Mindanao Railway Project from China, leading to a reassessment of the project's funding sources and development approach.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is now eyeing government funds, ODA loans, and a public-private partnership scheme to fund the project, with an expected release of terms of reference by December.

Duterte remains hopeful that these major infrastructure projects will eventually proceed, despite delays and funding challenges.