Philippine Railway Conference

08/11/2024

That's a wrap! 🚆

A huge THANK YOU to all rail leaders who joined us at the 2nd Philippine Railway Conference!

We're thrilled that you were part of such an incredible event. Together, we explored critical sub-themes:

💡 Human-Centered Railway Safety: Prioritizing people and fostering a strong safety culture.
💡 Digital Shield for Railway Resilience: Embracing technology to safeguard our railways.
💡 Building a Strong Railway Safety Ecosystem: Collaborating for a safer future.

Missed ? Stay tuned for more insights and resources on our Philippine Railways Institute and Philippine Railway Conference pages.

We can’t wait to see you all again for the next !

Let’s keep the momentum going and build a safer, more resilient railway system together. 💪

07/11/2024

07/11/2024

06/11/2024

1 day left! 🚂💨⚠️

Tomorrow, the future of the Philippine railway workforce takes center stage!

Join us at the 2nd Philippine Railway Conference as we explore cutting-edge solutions to enhance safety and security in the railway industry. 🚆

06/11/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Leo Austria as one of the speakers at this year’s .

With a background in Nursing and accreditation as a Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-certified Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Practitioner, Mr. Austria has over 16 years of experience, 10 of which have been focused on OSH. His journey from healthcare to railway safety underscores his commitment to safeguarding workers' well-being and fostering secure work environments, especially in high-risk sectors.

Mr. Austria’s career began in the health sector, serving as a Nurse for five years at Cabangan Rural Health Unit and San Lazaro Hospital. He furthered his dedication to public safety by becoming a Rescue Technician for the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), where he responded to various disasters and conducted preparedness training for both government and private organizations. This hands-on experience laid a solid foundation for his transition to a construction safety role, where he served as Safety Superintendent for the Makati Development Corporation, a top construction firm in the Philippines. During this tenure, he managed multiple projects in Quezon City and contributed to the company’s achievement of ISO 45001 certification, a testament to his dedication to maintaining top-tier safety standards.

Currently a Training Specialist III at the PRI, Mr. Austria leverages his extensive OSH background to enhance safety protocols and training for the Philippine railway sector. His participation in local immersion programs and training in Japan, through JICA, has enriched his understanding of international safety practices, which he integrates into his training sessions. Additionally, he is a sought-after freelance resource speaker for DOLE-accredited Safety Training Organizations, sharing his knowledge and inspiring best practices in occupational safety across various industries.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

05/11/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Randy Dela Cruz Calseña as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Calseña, a licensed Physical Therapist with a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of the Philippines Diliman, is a dedicated advocate for the disability sector in the Philippines. Currently serving as the Regional Programs Coordinator and OIC of the Programs Management Division at the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), he brings nearly three decades of experience in promoting inclusive policies and programs. His work has been pivotal in shaping disability-related initiatives, both through national organizations and government platforms, particularly focusing on creating equitable opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Throughout his career, Mr. Calseña has actively contributed to the advancement of accessibility and inclusivity in various sectors, including public transportation. His role in policy formulation and program development has emphasized the importance of integrating disability-inclusive frameworks within the Philippine railway sector, ensuring that safety and security measures meet the unique needs of all passengers. As a part-time Associate Professor at the College of Physical Therapy at New Era University, he also mentors future professionals, sharing his expertise in rehabilitative practices and disability rights.

At the , Mr. Calseña will highlight the critical role of accessible and inclusive transport systems. With his vast experience in disability affairs, he aims to promote strategies that enhance travel safety for persons with disabilities, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive railway environment.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

05/11/2024

🚉 Exciting Networking Opportunities Await at the 2nd Philippine Railway Conference! 🚉

The is here, centered on "Reinforcing Safety and Security in the Philippine Railway Sector" 🛤️✨ Join industry leaders, experts, and visionaries as we dive into the latest innovations, best practices, and transformative collaborations shaping the future of railway safety and security. From human-centered strategies to cutting-edge digital resilience, we’re paving the way for safer, stronger, and smarter railways! 🚄💡

💼 Don’t miss the dedicated networking space and time to connect with like-minded professionals, explore partnerships, and share valuable insights. Together, let’s build a more secure railway sector for the Philippines! See you there!

05/11/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Paul Allen Patriarca as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Patriarca, brings valuable experience in railway engineering, having contributed to track design and alignment for the North-South Commuter Railway project. Currently pursuing his Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of the Philippines - Diliman, and with a Magna Cum Laude in Railway Engineering from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, his hands-on experience with the latest design technologies ensures that his work supports safe and efficient railway operations.

At the , his presentation will focus on using Autonomous Rail Transit (ART) technology to modernize and secure historical railway lines, reflecting his commitment to merging modern technological advancements with the rich history of Philippine railways. His experience reviewing track alignment models, structure gauge clearances, and integrating modern safety standards positions him as a thought leader in pursuing safer, smarter, and more resilient railway systems.

Mr. Patriarca brings a comprehensive understanding of the operational and strategic challenges of reviving historical railway lines while adhering to contemporary safety protocols. His prior work with the Light Rail Transit Authority and his research on the correlation between GDP growth and railway development in ASEAN countries have given him a unique perspective on the interplay between economic growth and sustainable transport solutions.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

04/11/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Bernard Penners as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Penners is a prominent Safety Culture Specialist at Infrabel, Belgium's railway infrastructure manager, with a distinguished career focused on enhancing safety and organizational practices within the railway sector. At the , he will bring his expertise to foster a positive safety culture in railways. With experience as the former Chairman of the Human and Organizational Factors Working Group of the Union Internationale des Chemins de Fer (UIC) from 2019 to 2023, Mr. Penners has been a key contributor to safety initiatives that address both human behavior and structural elements in railway safety.

Mr. Penners' background in safety management is complemented by his academic achievements, including a Degree in the History of Philosophy from Université Libre de Bruxelles and a Specialized Master's in Human and Organizational Factors of Industrial Safety Management from ESCP, Paris. As a qualified trainer for the European Union Agency for Railways, Mr. Penners has been instrumental in training safety managers across Europe, emphasizing the importance of human-centered approaches in risk management and safety systems.

With a career spanning over three decades, beginning as a Night Train Attendant and evolving into roles such as Train Manager, Instructor, and Head of Train Managers, Mr. Penners brings a wealth of practical and managerial experience to the Philippine audience. His insights at the will guide local railway stakeholders in adopting strategies that prioritize safety and reinforce resilience within the Philippine railway sector.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

03/11/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Ryo Sawada as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Sawada is the Assistant Manager of the International Business Promotion Section at Asano Taisei Kiso Engineering Co., Ltd. He brings a wealth of experience in structural design and maintenance management, beginning his career at Daiwa House Industry in 2017, where he focused on commercial building and hotel projects. Since joining Asano Taisei Kiso Engineering in 2019, he has specialized in railway infrastructure, particularly in inspecting and maintaining railway station structures for major networks like Tokyo Metro and Tokyu Railway in Japan.

At the , with extensive hands-on experience in inspection methods and railway structure maintenance management, Mr. Sawada will offer valuable insights into how cutting-edge technology can enhance operational safety and efficiency in railway systems.

Since becoming Assistant Manager in 2022, Mr. Sawada has expanded his role to include technical sales and international collaboration. He actively promotes Asano Taisei Kiso’s proprietary maintenance and management technologies across Asia, aiming to elevate railway safety standards in the region. His commitment to fostering safer, more resilient railway infrastructures through technological innovation makes him a pivotal figure in advancing the sector's future.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

02/11/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Shigeaki Adachi as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Adachi is a seasoned railway professional with Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd., currently serving as the Department of Safety Affairs Senior Manager. Since joining Tokyo Metro in 2004, Mr. Adachi has gained extensive on-site experience in various operational roles, including station staff, train driver, and control center operator. These hands-on positions allowed him to understand train operations and passenger flow comprehensively, establishing a strong foundation in railway safety and efficiency.

In 2013, Mr. Adachi moved into management, where he worked on train timetable planning and improving operational stability, especially during peak hours. His expertise was further recognized when he was entrusted with transportation planning responsibilities for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games as part of The Tokyo Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. This role highlighted his capability to handle large-scale events, ensuring efficient transportation and safety for millions of commuters and international visitors.

Since 2022, Mr. Adachi has led initiatives in human factors management and the development of safety measures within Tokyo Metro’s Department of Safety Affairs. At the , he will focus on the crucial role of a safety-centric workforce in achieving secure and efficient rail operations. His insights will provide valuable guidance for fostering a robust safety culture and enhancing human resource practices in the Philippine railway sector.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

31/10/2024

🚆1 WEEK TO GO until the 2nd Philippine Railway Conference!🚆

Get ready to dive into the latest innovations and strategies for "Reinforcing Safety and Security in the Philippine Railway Sector!" In just one week, industry leaders, experts, policymakers, and railway enthusiasts will gather to share groundbreaking insights and build a stronger, safer future for Philippine railways.

🌐 Together, we’re tackling three powerful pillars:

🔹 Human-Centered Railway Safety – Prioritizing people first!
🔹 Digital Shield for Railway Resilience – Leveraging tech for robust protection!
🔹 Building a Strong Railway Safety Ecosystem – Collaboration at its core!

🚉 Join us on this incredible journey towards a secure, resilient, and forward-thinking railway sector for the Philippines! Countdown begins!

31/10/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Masakazu Adachi as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Adachi is a seasoned expert in railway safety and operations, currently serving as a Senior Railway Accident Investigator with the Japan Transport Safety Board (JTSB). His career began in Japan's railway sector, where he gained hands-on experience in various critical roles, including as a Shinkansen train driver and in the maintenance and management of railway vehicles. His extensive background in rolling stock has equipped him with a deep understanding of railway operations, positioning him as an authority in railway safety practices and protocols.

After his initial industry experience, Mr. Adachi transitioned into research, focusing on safety evaluation and the mechanics of railway systems. His work at a research institute involved studying the running safety of railway vehicles, particularly the interaction between wheels and rails, a crucial area in ensuring stability and minimizing accidents. His research background contributes a scientific approach to his safety methodologies, making him an invaluable asset in understanding the technical nuances of railway safety.

Since 2015, Mr. Adachi has been a key figure at the JTSB, where he investigates railway accidents with a meticulous approach to evidence collection, fact-finding, and causal analysis. His expertise in accident investigation aligns with the goals of the , where he will be speaking on strengthening security measures for a sustainable future. His insights will be invaluable in reinforcing safety and security in the Philippine railway sector, bringing his extensive knowledge of Japanese railway safety practices and accident prevention strategies.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

31/10/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Ms. Maria Carolina P. Arzadon as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Ms. Arzadon is a Supervising Transportation Development Officer with the PRI, where she has significantly contributed to enhancing training and competency in railway operations. With over 20 years of international and local experience, she has played a pivotal role in key projects across the Middle East, including the Dubai Metro and Riyadh Metro, as well as in the Philippines with the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA). Her expertise in training development, competency management, and railway operations makes her a vital asset in advancing the country's railway sector.

Throughout her career, Ms. Arzadon has consistently demonstrated her skills in operational mobilization, station management, and team leadership. As a pioneer in the Dubai Metro, she served as a Lead Assessor and Training Supervisor, overseeing the Red and Green Lines and providing crucial support to the Dubai Tram Project. Her commitment to operational excellence has been recognized through numerous performance awards, highlighting her dedication to quality training and service standards.

Ms. Arzadon holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Psychology and is pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration. Her qualifications are further enriched by National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) in assessing occupational competence and rail operations, as well as international certifications in tram and passenger services. Her contributions as Lead Resource Person in professional curriculum development, particularly for the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)' Professional Science Master’s in Railway Engineering Management underscore her commitment to fostering a safer and more skilled workforce in the Philippine railway industry.

Don't miss out on her insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

30/10/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Dr. Sandy Mae Gaspay as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Dr. Gaspay is an Associate Professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman - Institute of Civil Engineering and a research fellow at the UP National Center for Transportation Studies (UP-NCTS). With a strong foundation in civil engineering from UP Diliman and advanced degrees in traffic engineering from the University of Tokyo, Dr. Gaspay has developed specialized expertise in traffic signal control. Her research and academic work emphasize the intersections of traffic engineering, urban mobility, and transportation planning, making her a valuable contributor to the ongoing dialogue on transportation infrastructure and policy in the Philippines.

In her previous role as the head of the Department of Transportation’s Road Transport Planning Division, Dr. Gaspay played a pivotal part in shaping various high-impact infrastructure initiatives, including the EDSA Greenways, New Manila International Airport, and the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program. Her work has been instrumental in promoting sustainable, efficient, and accessible transport solutions, reflecting her dedication to advancing the Philippine transportation sector. Currently, she leads the Traffic Engineering and Management Laboratory at UP-NCTS, where her research focuses on Philippine public transportation systems and urban mobility challenges, with an emphasis on enhancing the welfare of transport users, particularly those with reduced mobility.

As a featured speaker at the , her insights are expected to highlight the importance of inclusive and human-centered railway safety, emphasizing the need for a transportation framework that accommodates all users equitably.

Don't miss out on her insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

30/10/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Israel A. Radiaganding as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Radiaganding serves as the Head of the Training Division at the PRI under the Department of Transportation. With a rich blend of industry experience and academic involvement, he is also a part-time Professor in the Civil-Railway Engineering Department at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Mr. Radiaganding holds a Master of Science in Management Engineering from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and is currently a candidate for a Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management at the Technological University of the Philippines. His foundational studies include a Bachelor’s degree in Railway Engineering and Management from PUP, where he was among the pioneering graduates.

As a speaker at the , themed "Reinforcing Safety and Security in the Philippine Railway Sector," Mr. Radiaganding brings expertise in training and workforce development essential to building a robust railway safety ecosystem. His certifications, including Certified Learning and Development Professional, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and Safety Officer credentials, underscore his commitment to quality, efficiency, and safety. His presentation will draw on the importance of identifying, assessing, and controlling hazards to minimize risks, highlight the need for comprehensive training programs to ensure workers are adequately skilled and knowledgeable, and offer valuable insights into best practices for enhancing safety standards across the Philippine railway system.

Mr. Radiaganding's leadership extends to his role as President of the Philippine Railway Engineers Association and active involvement in various international engineering and railway organizations. His numerous speaking engagements, including at Asia Pacific Rail in Hong Kong and the 1st National Railway Engineering Conference, reflect his dedication to advancing the railway profession in the Philippines. With his deep-rooted passion for railway development and highlighting the unique challenges inherent in the railway industry, he continues to inspire and elevate the railway workforce. This aligns with PRI’s mission to cultivate a skilled and safety-focused railway industry and encourage industry stakeholders to collaborate and share knowledge to improve OSH standards.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

30/10/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Julian Marc Makilan as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Makilan, a Senior Transportation Regulation Officer at the PRI under the Department of Transportation, brings extensive expertise in enhancing railway accessibility and safety. He has a background in Community Development from the University of the Philippines Diliman and a Master of Engineering from Yokohama National University, where he studied Transportation and Urban Engineering at the Graduate School of Urban Innovation.

At the , Mr. Makilan will combine technical and social insights to address the complexities of railway transportation in Metro Manila, a focus that aligns well with the theme, "Reinforcing Safety and Security in the Philippine Railway Sector." He will present insights from his research on access facility factors impacting user experience and safety among Metro Manila’s rail commuters. By employing statistical models, he evaluates travel behavior to refine railway access modes that enhance user satisfaction while prioritizing security and safety. His presentation will shed light on the vital role of data-driven decision-making in strengthening railway safety ecosystems.

Mr. Makilan's role at the PRI also involves assisting the Certification and Accreditation Division, where he contributes to policy development, certifies railway personnel, and audits internal processes. His commitment to reinforcing railway standards aligns with PRI's mission to foster a secure and efficient railway system in the Philippines, positioning him as a key advocate for sustainable and safe railway development.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!

29/10/2024

🎙️🎙️ SPEAKER REVEAL 🎙️🎙️

Start your engines! The Philippine Railways Institute, Asian Development Bank, JICA - Japan International Cooperation Agency, and Transportation Science Society of the Philippines - TSSP proudly welcome Mr. Takehiro Kawahashi as one of the speakers at this year’s .

Mr. Kawahashi serves as a Representative of the JICA Philippines Office, where he oversees critical railway projects that directly contribute to enhancing safety and efficiency in the Philippine railway sector. His portfolio includes the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project, MRT3 rehabilitation, and the PRI. With over a decade of dedicated experience in public transportation, Mr. Kawahashi brings a depth of expertise to the .

Mr. Kawahashi's career began in civil engineering, working across Japan, Asia, and Africa in public transportation infrastructure. He led several impactful public transport initiatives, including India’s high-speed railway and technical cooperation projects for railways in both India and Myanmar. His extensive background also encompasses project formulation in key cities across Africa, where he developed strategies for sustainable and efficient transit systems.

Mr. Kawahashi's work has been pivotal in Transit Oriented Development (TOD) research, assessing the broader societal impacts of public transport projects, and refining railway operations and maintenance processes. His perspective, shaped by international best practices and local project implementation, brings a unique, globally-informed viewpoint to reinforcing railway safety and security in the Philippines.

Don't miss out on his insights, which will shape the future of railway safety in the Philippines! Get ready to be inspired and don't miss the opportunity to interact and learn. ✨

📲 Scan the QR code to register now!