The first railway in the Philippines opened in 1892 from the capital, Manila, to Dagupan in the north of the island of Luzon. It was 195km in length, and built to 3ft 6in (1067mm) gauge. The line was later extended northwards to San Fernando, and southwards to Legazpi, reaching the latter in 1938. Various branch lines were also constructed.
A number of narrow gauge railways were constructed for the transport of sugar cane. These are known to have existed on the islands of Luzon, Cebu, Negros and Panay, and may have existed on other islands. All had ceased operation by the end of the 20th century.
At its maximum extent the main line network encompassed over 1100km of route. Today only the 480km southern main line from Manila to Legazpi remains, with some short branches. There are commuter services in the Manila area and the Bicol region, but no other passenger trains. Projects for rehabilitation and improvement of the railways, including a new standard (1435mm) gauge line connecting Manila with Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, have been active for many years, but progress is slow.
Manila has a light rail metro, the first line of which opened in 1984.
© 2005-2011
Glyn Williams
Flag image from CIA World Factbook
