Metro Manila, one of the world's most densely populated urban areas, faces a daily grind of traffic congestion and long commute times. Amidst the bustling streets of Makati and the rapidly developing Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig, a groundbreaking project promises to revolutionize urban transportation: the SkyTrain. This automated people mover line is designed to streamline connectivity between these two major business districts, offering a glimpse into the future of public transit in the Philippines.


A Vision Takes Shape

The SkyTrain project was first proposed by Infracorp Development Inc., a subsidiary of Alliance Global Group led by tycoon Andrew Tan.


On October 26, 2017, Infracorp submitted an unsolicited proposal to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to build a people mover system linking Fort Bonifacio in Taguig with the Guadalupe MRT station in Makati. By May 2018, the DOTr had officially endorsed the proposal, granting Infracorp "original proponent status," a significant milestone in the project's development.


Following the endorsement, the proposal underwent a rigorous review by the Investment Coordination Committee of the National Economic and Development Authority Board, ensuring that the project aligned with the broader economic goals of the country. Infracorp, meanwhile, began seeking an operations and maintenance partner, as well as a technology supplier. By mid-2018, the company had received bids from firms based in Austria, China, France, and Japan, highlighting the global interest in this ambitious project.



Breaking Ground and Moving Forward

The SkyTrain's construction, initially slated to commence in the first half of 2019, faced several delays. Originally projected to cost ₱3.5 billion and expected to be operational by the end of 2021, the project has yet to break ground as of March 2022. Despite these setbacks, the vision for the SkyTrain remains clear and compelling.


Upon completion, the 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) line will feature two stations: one in the Guadalupe area of Makati and another at Uptown Bonifacio in BGC. The SkyTrain aims to handle a daily ridership of 60,000 to 100,000 passengers, significantly easing the burden on existing transportation networks and reducing travel time between these key areas.


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Cutting-Edge Technology

The SkyTrain will utilize automated cable-propelled people mover technology, similar to the Leitner-Poma Minimetro system used at Miami International Airport. Despite being described in the media as a 'monorail,' this technology represents a distinct transit type, offering a reliable and efficient mode of transport.


Expansion and Future Prospects

The initial phase of the SkyTrain is just the beginning. There are plans for further expansion, potentially extending the line to the Makati Central Business District or connecting with the Manila Light Rail Transit System Line 1 (LRT-1). Such expansions would integrate the SkyTrain more deeply into Metro Manila's transportation network, enhancing connectivity across the metropolis.

In February 2018, Ayala Corporation, a major player in Philippine real estate and infrastructure, expressed interest in partnering with Infracorp. Ayala's potential involvement could pave the way for extensions to areas like Circuit Makati and Arca South in Taguig, aligning with their strategic development plans.




A Glimpse into the Future

The SkyTrain represents more than just a transportation project; it is a symbol of progress and innovation in urban mobility. By providing a fast, efficient, and reliable mode of transport, the SkyTrain can transform the daily commute for thousands of Metro Manila residents, fostering economic growth and improving quality of life.

As Metro Manila continues to evolve, projects like the SkyTrain will be crucial in shaping a sustainable and connected urban future. Despite the delays and challenges, the promise of the SkyTrain remains a beacon of hope for a better, more efficient transportation system in the heart of the Philippines.


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IMPORTANT NOTE: ang Taguigeño blog ay hindi konektado sa anumang account ng Taguig City government. Ito ay nabuo upang maghatid ng napapanahong balita at impormasyon para sa lahat ng Taguigeño.

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