Bicol Express: We're back

By Jun Pasaylo (Philstar)
Updated June 24, 2011 08:45 AM


^^ Bicol Express 918 successfully concludes its turn-around Manila-Naga-Manila test run this morning along with its nearly 200 passengers on board. (Jun Pasaylo)





MANILA, Philippines – Braving itself through raging rains as tropical storm “Falcon” battled Luzon, the Bicol Express successfully concluded its turn-around Manila-Naga-Manila final test-run this morning.

A total of 157 passengers, excluding crewmembers and police marshals, joined Bicol Express in its historic comeback since it canceled commercial operations in 2006 following the devastation of typhoon Milenyo.

In an interview with philstar.com, Philippine National Railway general manager Junio Ragragio Jr. said the successful trip signaled the readiness of the agency in reviving its long-stalled trip to Bicol region.

“Yes, we are ready for commercial operation. I think we need to start it already pero soft-run lang muna,” he said, while reiterating the need to have more trains operational for the route.

The PNR chief said that currently only two trains, with six coaches each, are ready for commercial operation. He said that the PNR is waiting for the delivery of 50 more coaches from Japan.

With commuters flocking to the PNR inquiring about trip schedules and fare rates, Ragrario said: “I think we need that commercial operation (to Bicol) already.”

On its final test-run, he cited the need to strengthen the train tracks and to clear illegal settlers along the railways. He also highlighted the need for more manpower that will cater to the needs of local commuters and tourists.

“We need more trackmen to guard and maintain the railways, especially during bad weather. Otherwise, the train will slow down, extending its travel time on its route,” he said.

Mock passengers – who were composed of the members of the media, PNR employees, independent bloggers, transportation officials, and joy riders – were treated to the train’s superb accommodations.

On top of its Tourist, Family, Executive and Dining Coaches, travelers also enjoyed uninterrupted wi-fi connections, huge LCD television screens, and real-time GPS monitoring on the train’s actual locations.

The PNR is yet to announce the fare rates of the soon-to-be open Manila-Naga route, but hinted that it is much cheaper compare to the other mode of transportation. It also said to launch its maiden commercial trip to Naga City on June 29.

The PNR also aimed of extending the route to Legazpi City by the end of the year.