Japanese telecommunications firm KDDI has announced its involvement in the development of Manila’s first subway system, a major move underscoring its commitment to expanding its international business operations. As part of the Metro Manila Subway Project, backed by the Japanese government, KDDI will play a crucial role in constructing essential telecom and fare collection systems.
The company is tasked with building telecom infrastructure, including pipe components and cabling, as well as installing servers and equipment necessary for fare collection, such as ticket gates and vending machines. While the financial details of the contract remain undisclosed, KDDI’s contribution is a significant part of this national project aimed at reducing traffic congestion and air pollution in Manila’s metropolitan area.
The Metro Manila Subway Project, proposed by the Philippines’ Department of Transportation and considered a priority by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, spans approximately 30 kilometers. KDDI’s responsibilities will cover the stretch from East Valenzuela to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s Terminal 3, including 15 stations, a train depot, and the operations control center.
Slated for completion in 2029, the subway will extend from Valenzuela in the north of Manila to Paranaque in the south. This project represents a vital infrastructure development for the region, expected to greatly enhance urban mobility and environmental quality.
KDDI’s involvement in this project is facilitated through its subsidiary, KDDI Philippines, which signed a contract in December with Thales, a French company that is providing transportation systems for the project. This engagement not only highlights KDDI’s growing international presence, with branches in over 100 countries and regions, but also its strategic diversification into infrastructure development, a sector increasingly vital for urbanized regions facing mobility and environmental challenges.
The Metro Manila Subway Project stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of multiple countries and companies in addressing urban issues through technological and infrastructural advancements. For KDDI, this project is not just an expansion of its business portfolio but also an opportunity to contribute to sustainable urban development in one of Southeast Asia’s most populous cities.
