Govt launches plan to modernize, expand railway networks nationwide

Govt launches plan to modernize, expand railway networks nationwide

Story by The Manila Times 
22 May 2024

IN a bid to alleviate the Philippine economy, reduce traffic congestion, enhance connectivity, reduce carbon emissions and enhance food security across the archipelago, the Philippines announces an unprecedented railway development plan. 

Spearheaded by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, this development plan aims to modernize and significantly expand the country's railway network.

One of the two major railway flagship projects to be unveiled soon is the North Luzon Railway Project, also known as "The Amianan Express," with an approximately 1300-kilometer (km) high-speed and commuter lines connecting the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga to Cagayan Export Zone in Cagayan Valley and 12 other provinces in the region.

Next is the long-awaited Mindanao Railway Project, also known as "The Eagle Express," with an approximately 1500-km high-speed railway system that connects all key cities in the Mindanao region. 

The railway system will be equipped with cutting-edge passenger and freight trains capable of speeds up to 180 to 200 km per hour. 

This railway system promises to significantly reduce travel time, and enhance connectivity and delivery of manufacturing and farm produce between key economic hubs in North Luzon and in Mindanao.

Furthermore, part of the Railway Development Plan initiatives is to prioritize sustainability with focus on technology transfer through the establishment of the Philippine Railway Academy.

 The Railway Academy will be the first of its kind in the country and shall open the first Railway Engineering Course.