DOTr Resumes Operation of 44-KM San Pablo-Lucena PNR Commuter Line

Over the weekend, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) reopened the San Pablo-Lucena commuter line on the Philippine National Railways (PNR). The route closed down in October 2013 following a collapse of its supporting structure. With the resumption of operations, the DOTr expects to serve “up to 3,683 passengers at any given time.” Additionally, it may also be utilized as a cargo freight service which can bolster the economic potential of Southern Luzon.

The commuter line stretches 44 kilometers long with two main stations and four flag stops. It forms a significant part of the PNR’s South Long Haul Project aimed at connecting Metro Manila to Laguna, Quezon, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon, among other Southern Luzon provinces. The DOTr furthered that it cuts travel time between San Pablo and Lucena down to 30 minutes from the usual one-hour trip by land. This line will operate 10 trips per day.

“This is part of our strategic objective on the social impact of railways and to bring value and relevance of the service to our unserved clientele in the corridor between San Pablo and Lucena,” explained PNR General Manager Junn Magno. Aside from this recent development, the DOTr Railways remain committed to accomplishing its target projects before President Duterte’s term ends. “We are hopeful that the current pipeline projects that we have, particularly in the railway sector, will be continued by the incoming administration,” affirmed Timothy John Batan, DOTr Undersecretary for Rails.

Late last week, Executive Secretary-designate Vic Rodriguez also announced the selection of Philippine Airlines President Jaime Bautista as the incoming transportation secretary. On the other hand, former Light Rail Transport Authority Deputy Administrator Cesar Chavez will serve as the undersecretary-designate for rails.

In response, outgoing DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade expressed his support for Bautista. “I personally know my successor, Jimmy Bautista. We have long years of association and friendship,” noted Tugade. “His professionalism, experience, dedication, and hard work will certainly augur well in his being the Secretary of Transportation. In the best of my abilities and capabilities, I shall assist in however way asked and needed.” The DOTr also guaranteed a “smooth, full, and transparent transition” for the next administration.

Sources: Manila Bulletin, CNN PH