Manila: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is processing the termination of its agreement with the contractor tapped to build the Unified Grand Central Station, also known as the Common Station that would link LRT1, MRT3 and MRT7 lines due to delays in the completion of the project. In a statement on Thursday, DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon said the contractor, a consortium of BF Corp. and Foresight Development and Surveying Co. (BFC-FDSC), has left the construction idle for over a year.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dizon stated, 'Our legal team is studying the termination of the contract so we can move on and finish this project,' calling the delay 'unacceptable.' He further noted that the project should have been completed by now and should be benefiting the public.

To expedite the completion, the DOTr is exploring alternative options under the Government Procurement Act or the Public-Private Partnership Code. The contractor may face penalties and liquidated damages for failing to fulfill its obligations. Dizon also mentioned that late payments from the government to the contractor are under investigation.

Dizon emphasized finding a balanced solution by considering the shortcomings of both the government and the contractor. The 13,700-square-foot-meter Common Station is located in North EDSA, Quezon City, and is meant to facilitate seamless transfers between MRT-3, LRT-1, and eventually the MRT-7 and the Metro Manila Subway, along with an intermodal system for buses, jeepneys, or taxis.