The Philippine National Railways (PNR) needs at least P16 billion to restore train services between Laguna and Albay, pushing the project’s reopening to 2026. Originally planned for 2025, the revival of the line is expected to cut long travel times to Bicol, especially during poor weather conditions. PNR General Manager Deovanni Miranda stated that the budget will cover track, station, and bridge reconstruction, while costs for relocating informal settlers remain unaccounted for. Recent infrastructure setbacks, including typhoon damage and landslides, have further delayed progress.
Meanwhile, the government is still seeking financing for the P175.32-billion South Long Haul (SLH) Project, which aims to revive the Bicol Express with a high-speed rail between Calamba and Daraga. China was initially tapped as the lender, but the Philippines withdrew its loan application in 2022. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is now being considered as a potential financier. Currently, PNR operates limited services in southern Luzon, while Metro Manila commuter trains remain suspended for North-South Commuter Railway construction.
