Through Almira Louise S. MartinezReporter
According to the Department of Transportation (DoTr), worker safety and digitalization training are top priorities in advancing the country’s rail services.
With technical assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), DoTr Undersecretary Anneli R. Lontoc said the Philippine Railway Institute (PRI) recently started using new technologies to help improve safety training.
“That is the latest thing we are including in our training curriculum: the digitalization,” she said at the second Philippine Railway Conference.
Ms Lontoc added that the department has purchased additional equipment and looks forward to developing the role of virtual reality (VR) in safety training.
“The digitalization of PRI’s training modules is a clear expression of the commitment to global standards,” said Secretary of Transportation Jaime J. Bautista.
PRI has produced 3,300 trained personnel from 3,700 railway workers, making it a steady supplier of skilled operators.
Occupational safety and health policy
While the DOTr embraces modern technologies, Mr. Bautista also emphasized the importance of worker safety and security.
“The focus on safety and security should not diminish as we promote digitalization and operations during training,” he said. “Training railway workers is only one side, the other side is taking care of them.”
The DOTr is committed to creating an Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) policy for the rail sector to promote employee welfare.
“This policy will mandate the protection and benefits of railway employees to encourage them to do their best at all times and ensure the safety and security of all passengers,” Mr Bautista said.
Through these initiatives, he added that the department is pushing for a ‘renaissance’ in the country’s railway industry.
“We can regain the glory of the Philippine Railways through modern and environmentally friendly trains and comfortable and efficient rides.”