The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is spending ₱157.21 million for the conduct of a feasibility study for the revival of the railway system in Panay Island and the proposed railway linking the provinces of Samar and Leyte.

In its request for expression of interest, the DOTr said the contract will cover consulting services for the feasibility study of both the Panay Railway and Samar-Leyte Railway.

The DOTr noted that movement of people and goods in Western Visayas and Eastern Visayas primarily rely on road-based modes of transportation, including trucks, buses,

jeepneys, tricycles, and private vehicles.

The agency said relying solely on road transportation within these regions is not as efficient as integrating a railway network that would expand connectivity between production areas and markets.

“Implementing railway projects like the Panay Railway and Samar-Leyte Railway would significantly enhance mobility, reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and support economic growth in these regions,” the DOTr said.

The proposed railways are aligned with the administration’s Philippine Development Plan, particularly on the necessity of expanding the country's railway network to improve inter-island connectivity and facilitate the more efficient flow of goods and people.

The DOTr said the contract will mandate the consultant to carry out the feasibility study for the Samar-Leyte Railway Project and update the feasibility study for the Panay Railway Project.

The study will determine the railways’ ability to meet long-term demand, prioritize passenger comfort, shorten travel time with faster trains, ensure seamless transfers, guarantee full accessibility, and operate 24/7.

For the Samar-Leyte Railway, it will delve into the prospect of a passenger and freight railway system that would connect major urban centers across Eastern Visayas.

Among the features of the study will be the creation of a transport model that shall evaluate the logistics and supply chain flows, particularly the transportation and shipping of agricultural products and other goods.

Meanwhile, the DOTr said the study on the Panay Railway seeks to update the last feasibility study on the project conducted in 2009.

The department expects the updated version to evaluate the potential of developing a passenger and freight railway system in Western Visayas.

Particularly, the railway would connect Iloilo City and Roxas City, Capiz, along with key production areas and tourist destinations.

Panay Railway’s original route included 19 permanent and 10 flag stations, providing seamless travel between Iloilo City and Roxas City.

Based on reports, the railway ceased operations in 1983 because of the strong decline in the sugar industry which affected its highly profitable freight operations.

The DOTr said the Special Bids and Awards Committee (SBAC) will identify a short list of consultants, evaluating firms based on their applicable experience, job capacity, and qualification of personnel.

The short list shall consist of at least three prospective bidders who will be qualified to submit bids for the contract.

Consultants interested in the study have to submit their eligibility documents to the DOTr on or before Sept. 8.

The contract shall be completed within twelve months from the notice to proceed.