PNR ramps up safety measures as train accidents rise in Bicol
LEGAZPI CITY—The Philippine National Railways (PNR) is ramping up safety protocols along its tracks following a sharp increase in train-related accidents across the Bicol region last year.
During the first safety summit held in Naga City on Tuesday, Deovanni Miranda, PNR acting general manager, reported an increase in fatalities and accidents, with five deaths recorded in 2024, up from two in 2023.
Incidents such as sideswiping, stoning and level-crossing accidents also surged, increasing from five in 2023 to 32 in 2024.
To address these concerns, the PNR partnered with the Philippine National Police in Bicol to enhance security along railway lines in the provinces of Albay and Camarines Sur, and in Naga City.
Police Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon, regional police director, said more policemen had been deployed this month to monitor train stations and tracks.
“We have increased police visibility and are engaging with communities, barangay officials and residents to promote safety and well-being,” Dizon said in an ambush interview on Tuesday. He stressed the role of police officers stationed at key points along the railway in preventing accidents and initiating dialogues with barangay officials to raise awareness on railway safety.
Improvements needed
Jojie Rebancos, village chief of Bagumbayan in Oas, Albay, expressed support for PNR’s safety initiatives while stressing the importance of protecting residents.
“We would appreciate it if more flagmen were deployed to caution the public,” Rebancos said in a separate interview.
He also called for improvements to railway infrastructure, particularly at crossings, noting that uneven pavements could contribute to vehicular accidents.
During the summit, PNR officials presented safety tips to over 500 attendees, underscoring the importance of using designated crossings and remaining vigilant near railway tracks.
The PNR also organized a poster-making and jingle contest to encourage students and community members to spread awareness about the dangers of stoning, the “stop, look and listen” practice and overall railway safety.
The PNR also closed several unauthorized access points along its tracks.
“These illegal crossings, often lacking proper safety measures, posed significant risks to both pedestrians and motorists,” Miranda said.
Addressing misinformation
He also addressed what he described as misinformation circulating online about a supposed shortened two-hour travel time between Calamba City (Laguna) and Legazpi City (Albay), a distance covering more than 400 kilometers, saying “such travel time is unfeasible, even with future projects like the South Long Haul Project.”
He also noted that trips between Naga City and Legazpi City remain suspended due to weather-related damage sustained in late 2024. Full train service on this route is expected to resume early next month.
However, the Naga to Sipocot (Camarines Sur) route remains operational.
