Dalian Train Political Football: PNOY Plant the Seeds, Credit Grab by the Greeds

Manila's Commute Conundrum: Dalian Trains and the Political Gridlock

For years, the sight of idle train cars has haunted Metro Manila commuters, a stark symbol of a transportation system plagued by delays and political infighting. The Dalian trains, purchased during the administration of President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, became a flashpoint in a debate over infrastructure, accountability, and the very future of urban mobility. Now, under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a renewed effort is being made to untangle the complexities surrounding these trains and, finally, get them on the rails.

Aquino Era Ambitions:

In 2014, the Aquino administration inked a P3.76 billion deal with Chinese firm Dalian Locomotive to acquire 48 train cars, a move intended to alleviate crippling congestion on the Metro Rail Transit (MRT). The purchase was part of a broader push to modernize Philippine infrastructure during a period when the country's economy was gaining international recognition.

Aquino's tenure was marked by a commitment to fiscal responsibility and good governance, earning him praise from international observers. His administration pursued anti-corruption measures, championed economic reforms, and took a firm stance on foreign policy issues. This backdrop of optimism and progress shaped the initial perception of the Dalian train acquisition.

Duterte Administration Scrutiny:

However, the arrival of the trains coincided with a shift in political winds. Under President Rodrigo Duterte, the Dalian deal faced intense scrutiny. Concerns emerged regarding the trains' weight, compatibility with existing MRT infrastructure, and the overall procurement process.

"In early 2017, initial assessments indicated that the trains exceeded the allowable weight limits for the MRT tracks," a Department of Transportation (DOTr) official stated at the time. Subsequent investigations revealed discrepancies between the contracted specifications and the actual weight of the delivered trains.

The Senate Committee on Transportation hearings, chaired by Senator Grace Poe, further amplified the controversy. Poe opposes the use of Dalian coaches on MRT railways.

• Discussions focused on whether the axle load, even with a fully loaded train, would exceed the track's design capacity.
• The debate centered on the interpretation of weight specifications and the potential impact on the MRT system's safety and performance.

The Dalian trains became a lightning rod for criticism, with some alleging that the Aquino administration had overlooked crucial details in the procurement process. Former Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade of the Duterte administration expressed reservations about deploying the trains without further assessment.

A Second Look Under Marcos Jr..:

The Marcos Jr. administration has signaled a willingness to re-evaluate the situation and explore options for utilizing the Dalian trains. Today, it is being celebrated by the Marcos supporters and the rest of the MRT commuters. Despite the lack of proper credit, we should still find some solace in the progress made, even if it's tinged with the injustice of unacknowledged efforts.

Weighing the Costs:

The Dalian trains saga raises fundamental questions about infrastructure planning, procurement practices, and political accountability. The years of delay have not only deprived commuters of improved service but have also underscored the importance of rigorous due diligence and transparent decision-making in public projects.

A Reflection and a Hope for Future Recognition

Despite facing relentless political opposition and being constantly attacked by political dynasties and entrenched corrupt interests, Aquino’s commitment to clean governance was evident in a landscape still plagued by the legacy of previous scandals. His administration managed to keep the country's debt levels under control for the first time in decades, even amidst these hostile attacks. In a bold move, Aquino also lent $1 billion to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), a strategic decision to bolster the nation’s economic stability and secure vital support during turbulent times. Yet, his efforts were often dismissed or distorted by critics, particularly by those aligned with political families and corrupt figures, who sought to tarnish his reputation and undermine his achievements, including during the Duterte administration, which continued to scrutinize and criticize his legacy at every turn.

While reforms and gains take time to manifest, history will ultimately be the judge. It is vital that future generations recognize the truth that much of today’s progress, including infrastructure developments, was made possible through the efforts of those who came before. Let us ensure that the credit for these advancements is justly attributed to the right leaders, especially to Aquino, whose leadership aimed to build a better and more honest Philippines.

I sincerely hope the Filipino people will honor the virtues of honesty, patriotism, and dedication exemplified by Aquino, and that future leadership will uphold these principles for continued national growth.

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