The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is exploring private-sector investment for the Mindanao Railway Project (MRP), including possible participation by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), as it pushes to advance the railway system in the region.
The project was among the main topics discussed when MinDA Chairperson and Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno met with representatives of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) on October 9, 2026, at the Westin Hotel in Ortigas.
“The Mindanao Railway Project remains a key infrastructure priority for us because of its potential to transform connectivity across the island. It can make the movement of people and goods faster and more efficient, strengthen links between economic centers, and open up more opportunities for our communities,” Magno said.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has divided the project into 11 segments. Some remain open to unsolicited proposals from private investors, while feasibility studies for Segments 1 and 3 are nearing completion.
Magno encouraged CCECC to identify a segment it is interested in and explore submitting an unsolicited proposal. He also offered MinDA’s assistance in coordinating with concerned government agencies, including the agency’s railway team in Davao, to move the discussions forward.
“By engaging capable private-sector partners like CCECC, we hope to explore viable ways to move this long-awaited project forward,” Magno added.
The meeting also covered CCECC’s exploration of investment opportunities in Mindanao, particularly in mining, mineral processing and energy.
CCECC expressed interest in mineral resources such as nickel, copper and gold. The company is also considering investments that would cover construction and operations, as well as the possible establishment of a mineral-processing facility in the Philippines. Such a facility could allow more value to be added to locally sourced minerals instead of exporting them solely as raw materials.
CCECC is likewise considering solar and other energy-related projects.
“We welcome CCECC’s interest in exploring opportunities beyond railway infrastructure. These areas offer opportunities to attract investments, create economic value, and support Mindanao’s long-term growth,” Magno said.
Magno was joined by Assistant Secretary and Deputy Executive Director Romeo M. Montenegro. CCECC was represented by Philippine Branch General Manager Li Linjiang and Marketing Head Zhang Enhong.
The discussions support the Marcos administration’s push to expand infrastructure and improve connectivity through greater private-sector participation. The Mindanao Railway Project is seen as a key initiative that could help move people and goods more efficiently across the island.
CCECC’s interest in mining and mineral processing also aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push to develop the country’s critical minerals industry. Through Executive Order No. 122, signed on August 18, 2026, Marcos directed the government to promote local mineral processing, attract investments and develop downstream industries to generate greater economic value from the country’s mineral resources.
MinDA, under the Marcos administration, will continue to engage prospective investors and coordinate with concerned government agencies to explore projects that support Mindanao’s development priorities and contribute to inclusive economic growth.
