THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) has called on Asean member states to support the expansion of the Philippine railway network.
“With these game-changing projects, we can transform the entire landscape of Philippine transportation. To achieve this, we would need help and collaboration from our partners and friends from Asean countries,” Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said at the Asean RailCon 2026 held at the Asian Development Bank (ADB) headquarters on Thursday.
Lopez urged Asean partners to continue supporting the implementation of key infrastructure projects, including the North-South Commuter Railway, Metro Manila Subway Project, MRT-7, and other planned rail developments.
He emphasized the role of the Philippine Railways Institute in developing a skilled workforce capable of supporting the country’s expanding railway sector, noting the need for professionals who are equipped to meet future operational and safety requirements.
During the conference, Asean Deputy Secretary-General for the Economic Community Satvinder Singh identified sustainability, resilience, digital innovation, safety standards, long-term investments, and workforce development as priorities for advancing railway systems across the region.
“Rail transport offers a strategic path towards sustainable growth while enhancing connectivity and providing a more inclusive future,” Singh said.
ADB Philippines Country Director Andrew Jeffries cited the bank’s long-standing partnership with the Philippines in revitalizing and expanding its railway infrastructure over the past decade.
Jeffries said the rail projects currently under development are expected to provide faster, safer, more reliable, and environmentally sustainable transportation options for millions of commuters once they become fully operational.
