The Philippine National Railway (PNR) held its 1st Railway Summit: Tracks to Safety on January 21, 2025, at Sundaze Hotel, Naga City, Camarines Sur. The summit aimed to promote safer, affordable, reliable, and environmentally friendly transportation options for the public.

On behalf of DILG Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla, DILG Undersecretary for Public Safety Serafin Baretto Jr. graced the event, reaffirming the Department’s commitment to supporting PNR’s initiatives to enhance railway safety. He highlighted the significance of inter-agency collaboration and emphasized the Department’s role in monitoring LGUs’ compliance with Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2, Series of 2024, which mandates the formulation and submission of Local Public Transport Route Plans (LPTRP).

DILG 5 Regional Director Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober, Jr., CESO III, participated as a panelist during the discussion on the summit’s campaign theme: “Stop, Look, and Listen: Maging Riles-Alerto, Para Iwas Peligro.” He emphasized the responsibilities of LGUs in promoting public safety and ensuring secure transportation systems in their respective areas. He also highlighted the DILG’s mandate to monitor Peace and Order and Public Safety Plans (POPS Plans) at all levels- barangay, city, municipality, and provincial- to ensure railway safety concerns are being addressed by LGUs.

DILG Region V remains with its commitment to promoting public safety and supporting initiatives like the Railway Summit that contribute to community welfare and development.