Manila Commuters: PNR Closure Coming Soon, Here's What You Need to Know

PNR Suspends Operations for NSCR Construction.

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) will be shutting down its Metro Manila operations for five years starting March 28th, 2024. This temporary closure is to facilitate the construction of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), a massive railway project aimed at improving transportation in the region.

 

Alternative Bus Routes Available

Don't worry, commuters won't be left stranded! The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) have released alternative bus routes to replace the PNR lines.

 

Here's what you need to know:

• Affected Routes: The closure will impact the Governor Pascual-Tutuban and Tutuban-Alabang lines.
• Benefits of Closure: This suspension is expected to expedite the NSCR project by eight months and save the government P15.18 billion.
• New Bus Routes: The DOTr has designated specific bus routes mirroring the former PNR lines, with stops close to original pick-up and drop-off points.
  • Southbound (Tutuban-Alabang): Divisoria, Mayhaligue St., Abad Santos Ave., Recto Ave., Legarda St., Quirino Ave., Nagtahan Flyover, Mabini Bridge, Osmeña Hwy., Nichols Entry, SLEX, Bicutan Exit, Bicutan Entry, Alabang (Starmall)
  • Northbound (Alabang-Tutuban): Alabang (Starmall), Manila South Rd., East Service Rd., Alabang Entry, SLEX, Bicutan Exit, Bicutan Entry, Nichols Exit, Osmeña Hwy., Quirino Ave., Legarda St., Recto Ave., Abad Santos Ave., Mayhaligue St., Divisoria (Tutuban)
• Bus Schedules: To cater to passenger demand, specific bus schedules have been established:
  • Southbound (Tutuban-Alabang): 7:30 AM, 9:10 AM, 3:00 PM, 3:20 PM, 7:30 PM, 9:00 PM
  • Northbound (Alabang-Tutuban): 5:00 AM, 6:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 11:45 AM, 5:00 PM, 6:10 PM
   
  

About the NSCR Project

The NSCR is a game-changer for Metro Manila's transportation system. This 147-kilometer railway will connect New Clark City in Tarlac to Calamba, Laguna, significantly reducing travel times and congestion. With a daily passenger capacity of 800,000, the NSCR promises a more efficient and comfortable way to travel.

 

Delayed Closure and Project Details

The NSCR project was initially slated for closure in February 2023. However, authorities postponed the shutdown to allow for a smoother transition and to implement partial stoppages first.

 

The NSCR will ultimately consist of two lines:

• PNR Clark (Tutuban to New Clark City): 91 km
• PNR Calamba (Solis-Calamba): 56 km

 

The DOTr believes the NSCR will not only decongest Manila traffic but also bolster economic growth in surrounding areas.

 

Stay Informed for Updates

Commuters are encouraged to stay updated on any further announcements or schedule adjustments regarding the PNR suspension and alternative bus routes.