The Philippine National Railways (PNR) has resumed its Naga-Legazpi train route on December 27, 2023 after nearly six years. 

The operation was suspended in April 2017 due to a shortage of train coaches and locomotives. 

The train departed from PNR Legazpi City Station at around 5 a.m. and arrived in Naga City Station past 9 a.m.. Although the trip experienced a three-hour delay, commuters were generally content with the experience.

The influx of passengers from various stations, including Polangui and Iriga City, contributed to the train's delayed schedule.

“Okay naman yung experience. Medyo marami kami dun sa loob ng tren kanina. Sumakay ako from Washington drive sa Legazpi. Okay naman yung experience," Rey Anthony Ostria, a commuter, said.

“Enjoy naman kaso makalula, then medyo parang haloy si biyahe," Glenn Nuñez, another commuter, added.

The train operates with eight stations and eight flag stops along the route, catering to various destinations.

Stations are located in Naga, Pili, Iriga, Polangui, Ligao, Travesia, Daraga, and Legazpi.

Meanwhile, flag stops are in Baao, Lourdes, Bato, Matacon, Oas, Bagtang, Washington Drive, and Capantawan.

CHALLENGING

PNR acknowledges that reopening the route faced challenges, particularly in the construction of a bridge in San Francisco, Guinobatan, Albay.

Despite the difficulties, PNR expressed optimism about the positive impact of the train service on the region's economy and tourism.

"Quite challenging lang yung pag-construct naming ng bridge dun sa may San Francisco, Guinobatan [Albay]. Yun yung bridge na kailangang magdugtong para mabuksan na yung Naga-Legazpi [route], nag-overtime kami, nagtrabaho ng weekend para ma-meet yung deadline," Jaypee Relleve, the Engineering Department Manager of PNR, said.

With the resumption of the Naga-Legazpi route, PNR aims to develop and open other routes within and outside the region.