The excavation work for the Metro Manila Subway Project has commenced with the launch of the gigantic tunnel boring machine (TBM) made in Japan on January 9. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the launching ceremony at the East Valenzuela Depot in Valenzuela City. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista and Deputy Chief of Mission Matsuda Kenichi of the Embassy of Japan joined President Marcos in commemorating this historic occasion.

Deputy Chief of Mission Matsuda said the launching ceremony for the TBM is a good indicator that Japan-Philippines infrastructure cooperation is gaining much momentum under President Marcos' 'Build, Better, More' policy and highlighted subway's prospective economic and environmental benefits in providing Filipinos a safe and reliable commuting option. Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko provided assurances that the Japanese government will continuously support this flagship project in a 'full speed ahead' manner and expressed his confidence in realizing Filipinos' dream to enjoy the convenience of a subway through cutting-edge Japanese technologies.