Mendoza lauds passage of National Railways Act

Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza lauded yesterday the passage of House Bill 5051 aimed to modernize the country’s railway system.

The House approved Friday on third and final reading the House Bill 5051, otherwise known as National Railways Act, paving the way for the revitalization of the railway system in the country.

The creation of the National Railway Act is part of President Arroyo’s goal to lift millions of Filipinos from poverty and accelerate national wealth and well-being, said Mendoza.

"It is a welcome development as this would not only generate thousands of jobs but also help solve the country’s traffic mess providing alternative, efficient and effective mass transport system," said Mendoza.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) according to Mendoza has formed a team of experts, to map out the government’s strategy in building an efficient transportation system for the Philippines in the 21st century.

"A modern railway system that connects major ports and airports will make an efficient and cheap transport system of moving goods and people and spur trade, not to mention the fact that it is the best way to lighten traffic congestion," said Mendoza.

The DOTC secretary stressed that the passage of the bill would assure an integrated network of safe-affordable, environment-friendly and world-class transport services.

Under House Bill 5051, the National Railway’s Act will absorb assets and functions of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) and the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA). — Non Alquitran