“Rail systems are a driver for inclusive socioeconomic growth. They encourage trade and business activity, and provide access to employment and educational opportunities. The PNR, once a symbol of the country’s economic progress, should be modernized into a safe, convenient and efficient system by 2020,” Abaya said.
Upon full operations, the DOTC said there would be 10 daily trips with seven train sets passing through 66 stations.
It is expected to yield a demand of 316,000 passengers a day on its opening year and is projected to entice around 44,000 public and private vehicle users to shift their commutes to the modernized railway.