When completed, the line will connect Central and Southern Luzon through a 147-km long track.
In its press release issued on Friday, August 29, the Department on Transportation revealed that French rail operators and companies have already expressed their interest to handle the operations and maintenance (O&M) requirements of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System.
During the NSCR market sounding activity in Paris, France, Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan noted that he received “encouraging” interest from other countries in operating and maintaining the NSCR.
“We are really hearing good interest [from private firms and other countries]. The market is very interested in participating and eventually bidding for the NSCR concession,” said Batan.
He furthered, “The participants operate the broadest railway network in the world. They are seriously taking a look at participating in the NSCR.” Moreover, he disclosed that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) should make adjustments to their concerns.
For Philippine Chargé d’Affaires in France Eric Gerardo Tamayo said tapping French rail expertise will benefit the Philippines.
This, as France has one of the most well-developed railway networks in the world that spans not only its cities, but also the countryside.
“You have different options of railway here in France. You have the subway, regional railway and high-speed rail. Their railways are really commuter-friendly,” the head of mission said.
Tne North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) will run from Clark all the way to Calamba, Laguna. It is slated to open for partial operations from Valenzuela to Malolos in late 2027.