Albay: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has mandated the inspection of a Philippine National Railways (PNR) bridge connecting San Rafael and Maipon in Guinobatan, Albay. This directive comes after Super Typhoon Uwan impacted the province and other parts of the Bicol region.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lopez emphasized that the inspection aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to expedite the repair of the damaged bridge, ensuring the safety of PNR passengers and personnel. The operations of the PNR Naga-Legazpi line have been suspended starting November 10 and will remain so during the assessment and repair process.

To assist affected commuters, Lopez instructed the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to deploy additional public utility vehicles along the train’s route. The PNR will conduct ongoing inspections of the entire Bicol commuter train route to confirm that no other structures have been compromised by the typhoon.

The public is advised to avoid the affected areas and await official communications from the PNR and the Department of Transportation regarding the resumption of rail services. The PNR leadership has requested understanding from all affected passengers and urged everyone to stay safe and prepared for any situation.