The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has partnered with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to develop a second prototype of a hybrid electric train (HET) for the southern tracks in Luzon in the Philippines. Further, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) consultants for the Philippine National Railways’ (PNR) North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), spanning from Calamba, Laguna to Matnog, Sorsogon, have approved the adoption of the HET technology developed by DOST’s Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC).
The first prototype, which was evaluated and tested in 2019, met initial standards. Meanwhile, the second prototype is aimed at enhancing safety for both passengers and operating personnel. The development of the NSCR is a key part of the government’s effort to make existing train systems more efficient.