PNR Pledges Completion Of 147-km NSCR By 2028 for Presidential Inauguration

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) has committed to the full operation of the 147-kilometer North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) from Clark, Pampanga to Calamba in Laguna by 2028, in time for the inauguration by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The trains, including express and regular services, will operate at speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour and 130 kilometers per hour, respectively, catering to the transportation needs of commuters across the NSCR route. I Photo: Department of Transportation Philippines (DOTr)

This announcement came during the Saturday News Forum, where PNR Chairman Michael Ted Macapagal outlined the progress and plans for the ambitious railway project.

Macapagal disclosed that the pre-construction works are nearing completion, focusing on tasks such as fencing, track removal, and resolving right-of-way (ROW) issues. These preparations are expected to pave the way for rail construction to commence by October of the current year.

The NSCR project, funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to the tune of 876 billion pesos, encompasses a comprehensive rail network stretching from Pampanga to Bulacan, Metro Manila, and onwards to Laguna.

Notably, the railway system will feature elevated segments within Metro Manila and will align with the Metro Manila Subway, facilitating seamless transportation across key urban centers.

In highlighting the significance of the project, Macapagal emphasized the detrimental impact of the country's traffic congestion on the economy, citing a JICA study estimating daily losses of 3.5 to 4 billion pesos due to traffic-related delays.

He credited President Marcos Jr. as the visionary driving force behind the railway initiatives, essential for propelling economic growth and improving the quality of life for Filipinos.

Furthermore, Macapagal revealed the transition from diesel locomotive trains to state-of-the-art electric trains procured from Japan, underscoring their modernity and efficiency.

These trains, including express and regular services, will operate at speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour and 130 kilometers per hour, respectively, catering to the transportation needs of commuters across the NSCR route.

Moreover, Macapagal emphasized the developmental aspect of the NSCR project, highlighting plans for land development around railway stations to foster economic activity and community growth.

Overall, the completion of the NSCR project represents a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity, alleviating traffic congestion, and fostering economic development across key regions of the Philippines.