A major step forward is underway for the much-anticipated Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7), as trial runs for its trains are expected to begin before the end of 2025. The 22-kilometer elevated railway—linking Quezon City to Bulacan via Commonwealth Avenue—is now moving closer to full operations, projected to launch in 2026.
According to the transport project’s private operator, the construction and systems development of MRT-7 remains on schedule, backed by a newly signed operations and maintenance agreement with Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL).
Strategic Partnership with KORAIL Strengthens Progress
With the formal agreement in place, KORAIL will begin supporting MRT-7’s operational preparations in July 2025. The initial six to twelve months will focus on establishing safety standards, core operational procedures, and system integration to ensure a smooth and secure rollout.
KORAIL, known for managing South Korea’s expansive railway system—including the high-speed KTX network—will also provide technical support and oversee knowledge transfer for long-term sustainability.
“This collaboration is essential as we prepare to transition from construction to actual service,” noted the project lead. “Despite earlier setbacks due to right-of-way acquisition, we are confident in meeting our 2026 target.”
From Planning to Reality
The MRT-7 initiative was first introduced in 2016 through a public-private partnership between the national government and private sector stakeholders. Since then, progress has steadily continued, with the first batch of trains manufactured by Hyundai Rotem of South Korea delivered and installed in 2021.
Once operational, the line will connect 14 stations from North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, serving as a vital transit link for daily commuters in the northern corridor of Metro Manila.
Stations Along the MRT-7 Line:
- North Avenue
- Quezon Memorial Circle
- University Avenue
- Tandang Sora
- Don Antonio
- Batasan
- Manggahan
- Doña Carmen
- Regalado
- Mindanao Avenue
- Quirino
- Sacred Heart
- Tala
- San Jose del Monte
A Game-Changer for Urban Mobility
KORAIL President Han Moon Hee expressed optimism about the venture, emphasizing how this partnership could become a model for other infrastructure projects in the country.
“The integration of our technical capabilities with our Philippine partners’ vision has the potential to redefine the future of transportation here,” he stated. “MRT-7 will not only shorten travel times but also improve the everyday lives of thousands of commuters.”
With testing on the horizon and preparations intensifying, MRT-7 is poised to become one of the country’s most significant developments in public transport, ushering in faster, more reliable travel between Metro Manila and Central Luzon.