The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced a significant step forward in its goal to modernize and expand the nation’s railway network by formally requesting Expressions of Interest from qualified consulting firms to conduct the feasibility studies for the proposed Samar-Leyte and Panay Railway projects.
The request, issued through a notice and published on the DOTr’s official website and the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS), marks the initial phase of a strategic initiative to establish vital railway links within the Visayas region. The successful completion of these feasibility studies is critical to determining the economic viability, technical feasibility, and overall impact of the planned rail lines.
“These railway projects are integral to our vision of a more connected and prosperous Philippines,” said DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, adding, “By linking Samar and Leyte, and by revitalizing the Panay Railway, we aim to unlock the full economic potential of these islands. This will not only improve the movement of goods and people but also foster tourism and create new opportunities for our communities.”
The feasibility study for the Samar-Leyte Railway will assess the potential for a new line that would significantly improve inter-island transport and logistics. Simultaneously, the study for the Panay Railway will focus on the revival of the historic network, exploring its modernization and expansion to serve a new generation of commuters and freight transport.
Interested consulting firms are invited to submit their Expressions of Interest, which will be evaluated based on their technical expertise, experience, and capability to undertake a comprehensive analysis of the proposed projects. The official Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) provides detailed information on the scope of services required.
A copy of the RFEOI is available for direct download from the official DOTr website (www.dotr.gov.ph) and the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) at www.philgeps.gov.ph.
