The Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Philippines has announced plans to bid out the contract for the feasibility study of the proposed Subic-Batangas freight railway project by the end of 2024. This railway project, known as the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway, will enhance logistics flow and economic activity across some of Luzon’s major economic hubs.
Philippine National Railways (PNR) is planning to seek a consultant for the feasibility study, with bidding scheduled for Q4 2024. The feasibility study will be funded by a USD6 million grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The Subic-Batangas rail project aims to connect Subic Bay, Clark, Metro Manila, and Batangas over around 250 km. This railway is expected to streamline logistics, reduce transport costs, and lower commodity prices, ultimately benefiting consumers.
In addition to the Subic-Batangas rail, the DOTr is also looking for consultants to conduct feasibility studies for railways in the Visayas region. Specifically, the Panay Railway and the Samar-Leyte Railway are under consideration. The Panay Railway aims to revive a decommissioned line that was shut down in 1983 and extends over 117 km. The Samar-Leyte Railway, expected to cost PHP10 billion, will link provinces in Eastern Visayas.