DOTC to bid out MRT-3 upgrade deal

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) will be bidding out by June a P836-million deal that would upgrade the support systems of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT 3).

Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said while they upgrade facilities, ancillary or support systems need upgrades as well. Abaya added the project was part of the MRT 3’s P3.8-billion expansion project, which includes the acquisition of 48 brand new trains.

According to the DOTC’s invitation to bid, the project involves the upgrade of traction power sub-station and depot facilities, and the construction of the North Avenue turn back and Taft Avenue pocket track extension.

Bidders have until June 11 to submit proposals.

The DOTC said bidders should be Filipino citizens or sole proprietorships, or organizations that are at least 75 percent owned by Filipino citizens.

Bidders should have experience with at least one contract similar to the project.

The MRT 3, which runs across EDSA and has stops in Metro Manila’s central business districts, was recently plagued by faulty systems and even driver errors. Commuter groups have called for the resignation of MRT 3 General Manager Al Vitangcol III, on the grounds of his supposed incompetence.

Vitangcol was also accused of attempting to extort US$30 million from the Czech Inekon Group. Vitangcol has denied the claims, and said he would only resign once his name is cleared of the controversy. – Rappler.com