PNR closes 18 unauthorized level crossings in Bicol

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) closed several unauthorized level crossings in Bicol from August to October to ensure safe and smooth train operations.

In a statement on Tuesday, PNR said the unauthorized crossings that were closed are Bagumbayan Crossing in Ligao, Road Intersecting Almeda Highway Crossing in Naga, Sampaloc Crossing in Gainza, Travesia and San Francisco Crossing in Guinobatan, and Mayao Payawan and Capucnasan Crossing in Milaor.

Agos Crossing in Bato, Apad, Cepeda, San Martin, and Agos Crossing in Polangui, Campugo, Inalahan, and Camambugan Crossing in Libmanan, Pamplona Crossing in Pamplona, and New San Roque and Anayan Crossing in Pili were also closed.

According to the PNR, the crossings were set up on PNR Right-of-Way (ROW) without permission from the agency.

PNR General Manager Deovanni Miranda said the unauthorized crossings were closed to ensure safer PNR operations and provide faster and more comfortable rail travel for the public.

“It is also very dangerous for the public and motorists to use and pass illegal crossings because it does not have crossing keepers, official crossing barriers, and signals or signages,” the statement read.

The eight PNR stations in Bicol are Naga City, Pili, Iriga City, Polangui, Ligao, Travesia, Daraga, and Legazpi City. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News