Transforming rail infrastructure in the Philippines

The Philippines is undergoing a major overhaul of its transportation infrastructure, particularly in the rail sector. While the country has significant potential for an expanded and modernized rail network, its current systems are outdated and insufficient. The existing railway network spans approximately 270.16 kilometers, including the Manila Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) systems.

This network is set to increase threefold to 1,233 kilometers by the 2030s, as part of the government’s push to address traffic congestion, improve mobility, and support sustainable economic growth. Key projects driving this expansion include the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), the Metro Manila Subway Project, the MRT-7 (Metro Rail Transit Line 7), the LRT-1 Cavite Extension, the PNR Bicol Project, the Subic-Clark Railway Project, and the Mindanao Railway Project.

With the increase in funding for railway projects — 11 billion USD allocated in 2024, up from 7.5 billion USD in 2023—the rail sector is set to see transformative changes. This funding surge follows years of increasing support for rail development, including partnerships with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and other foreign governments and institutions.

Partner with the Philippine government and local stakeholders to expand and modernize railway infrastructure by providing advanced technologies and eco-friendly solutions for new and existing rail projects.

Introduce automated systems for train signaling, operations management, and safety, improving efficiency and reliability across the railway network.

Assist with the construction and upgrade of rail stations, integrating green building standards and energy-efficient technologies to reduce the environmental footprint.

Support the implementation of smart transportation technologies such as intelligent ticketing, real-time tracking systems, and passenger information systems, improving the overall travel experience.

Offer expertise in train maintenance and operations, including predictive maintenance systems, ensuring the long-term durability and safety of the network.

Collaborate on capacity-building initiatives, offering training programs for local engineers, operators, and technicians to ensure local expertise in maintaining and operating modern rail systems.

For more information contact Johan Lennefalk at Johan.Lennefalk@business-sweden.se.