New North-South railway trains arrive in Philippines
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has expanded rolling stock capacity for the government’s flagship commuter rail project following the arrival of a third eight-car Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) trainset for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR).
According to the DOTr, the new hardware—designated for the initial Malolos–Tutuban leg—is currently undergoing importation processing and customs clearance.
Once cleared, the trainset will be transferred to the Malanday Depot in Valenzuela City for system integration, static checks, and dynamic fleet testing.
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that the agency is moving aggressively to fulfill executive mandates to accelerate major infrastructure projects. He added that the DOTr ensured the trainsets underwent rigorous factory acceptance inspections prior to shipment to verify structural integrity, operational safety, and interior specifications.
Upon completion, the 147-kilometer NSCR will connect Clark, Pampanga to Calamba, Laguna. The line is designed to dramatically reduce travel times across Central Luzon, Metro Manila, and Southern Tagalog, with the Malolos–Tutuban section serving as a critical northern corridor bringing daily commuters directly into Manila’s commercial hub at Tutuban.