Philippine Railway Development Plan: ‘Key to economic progress’

Government launches ambitious plan to modernize and expand railway networks nationwide

Manila: 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 has announced an unprecedented railway development plan.

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

The Philippine government will be supporting a multi-billion-dollar investment program to construct new railway lines, integrate existing railway infrastructures, and introduce state-of-the-art railway system technologies. The plan includes the development of high-speed rail networks, suburban commuter lines, and inter-island connections, marking a pivotal shift towards sustainable and efficient public transportation.

Top economist in both the government and private sectors emphasized the transformative impact of this endeavor, stating, “The Philippine Railway Development Plan” is not just about building tracks; it’s about building the foundation to a brighter future for our nation.  By investing in modern and reliable rail systems plus technology transfer, we are laying the foundation for economic growth, food security, environmental sustainability, improved productivity and quality of life for all Filipinos.”

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 high-speed and commuter lines connecting the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga to Cagayan Export Zone in Cagayan Valley to other 12 provinces in the region. 

Next is the long-awaited Mindanao Railway Project also known as “THE EAGLE EXPRESS” with an approximately 1500-kilometer high-speed railway system that connects all key cities in the Mindanao region.   The railway system shall be equipped with cutting-edge passenger and freight trains capable of speeds up to 180-200 kilometers per hour, this railway system promises to significantly reduce travel time, enhance connectivity and delivery of manufacturing and farm produce between key economic hubs in North Luzon and in Mindanao.

The Philippine railway plans extends its reach to underserved regions, with plans to construct new lines in Bicol, Palawan and Visayas. This inclusive approach aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas, unlocking opportunities for economic development and empowering communities across the country.  Creation of more economic power hubs and tourism hubs is seen inevitable as the rail system emerges leading to the nation’s greater progress.

The railway development plan will tremendously boost the Philippine Economy in the next decades to come.  These two rail projects will transform the economic landscape of the country as it will generate at least 200,000 jobs during the construction stage alone and at least 10,000 jobs during the train operations.  

Moreover, once the AMIANAN EXPRESS operates, one can experience the North Luzon loop in a day.  Experience having a breakfast by the beach in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, having fresh seafood lunch in Sta.Ana, Cagayan, having dinner in a floating restaurant in Nueva Ecija, then ending the day in Clark, Pampanga.  Likewise, once the EAGLE EXPRESS operates in Mindanao, one can experience and see the beauty of Mindanao in a day by having beach breakfast in Siargao, having steak for lunch with unlimited freshly squeeze pineapple juice at Del Monte Plantation in Bukidnon then have a tuna steak dinner with durian shake in General Santos, then back to Davao City for a relaxing evening rest with a hot tablea chocolate drink.  With the Amianan Express and Eagle Express, the seemingly unattainable experience becomes achievable.

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.  The academy shall open the 1st Railway Engineering Course and expected to generate much needed Railway Engineers and Railway Specialist for our modern future railways.  Notable groups of railway consortium experts from Korea who are participating in this railway development program of the Philippines are committed to support the Railway System Sustainability Goals of the Philippines.   It is seen that after the completion of the Amianan Express, the Eagle Express with the Philippine Railway Academy in 2032, Future Filipinos shall be self-reliant and capable to do design & development, construction, operate and manage new and existing railway system in its own. 

 

These two major rail projects have garnered widespread support from both the public and private sectors, with international partners from Korea, Singapore, Japan, Europe, and the United States expressing sincere interest in collaboration and investment.  With the Korean Exim Bank signifying strong support for the Amianan Express project, other international partners are expected to follow soon.   As construction commences and new lines become operational, Filipinos can look forward to a future characterized by efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly transportation options.

As the Philippines embarks on this historic journey towards a modernized railway network, it sets a precedent for sustainable development and progress in the country. With innovation driving every rail laid and every station built, the nation stands poised to reap the benefits of this transformative endeavor for generations to come.

The Philippine Railway Development Plan, Nation’s key to high-speed Economic Progress, Economic Recovery and Stronger Food Security Program. (P.A.C.E.R.)