Travelers to the southern provinces of Luzon will be glad of this great news from our the transportation department. The Philippine National Railways (PNR) plans to resume its Manila-Naga operations.
PNR Metro Commuter
After four years, the Bicol Express will finally be back for service as early as December 15. According to Assistant Transportation Secretary for Rails Cesar Chavez, PNR and DOTr officials had already conducted previous inspections and while another one is due next week.
PNR stopped servicing the route after a derailment accident happened in Quezon Province four years ago. The secretary noted that the PNR is still working with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for a log ban exemption so they could use “yakal” hardwood for the damaged Ragay and Del Gallego bridges.
The Bicol Express line will use a 300-seater car and an 83-seater Kogane tourist car.
Read before that the “first class” cabins are pretty comfy and not-too-expensive. Would like to try it some day.