No need to go to Japan as PNR adds new train with rotating seats and a toilet

You don't need to travel all the way to Japan just to experience the famous rotating and reclining chairs of their trains, which also come with toilets. 

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) has just started using a new set of trains purchased from Japan that offer those exact amenities. Aside from the swiveling train chairs and a comfort room, the Kogane train set — which consists of three coaches —also comes with stowable tables and leg rests.

This, the Department of Transportation announced as it revealed that the PNR has extended, since December 1, its rail services to Los Baños, Laguna with the addition of five new stations.

The existing PNR line from Tutuban, Manila to Calamba, Laguna gets five new stations namely, Pansol, Masili, Los Baños, College, and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).

"Moreover, included in the main line now is one Kogane train set, which consists of three coaches," the DOTr said.

"Passengers can enjoy reclining and rotating seats, stowable tables, leg rests, and a comfort room inside the train. The said train set from Japan can accommodate 81 passengers," it said.

The fare from Tutuban to Los Baños is P150, according to the DOTr.

Photos of the new train from Japan and its interior — showing the rotating chairs, stowable table, leg rests, and toilet — were posted on Facebook by astrophysicist Rogel Mari Sese, who got a chance to take the new PNR train's maiden trip.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade commended the efforts of the PNR for modernizing its train sets and spreading its services outside of Metro Manila.

“Ako ay nagpapasalamat sa PNR sa kanilang patuloy na pagpapalawak ng kanilang serbisyo at pagdagdag ng mga makabagong bagon para sa ikagiginhawa ng ating mga kababayan. Umpisa pa lamang po ito, dahil marami pa pong ihahandog ang PNR na makakaabot ang riles sa iba’t ibang parte ng bansa,” Tugade said.

PNR General Manager Junn Magno said tests have been conducted to ensure the smooth-running operation of the extended services, and that more trips will be added over time.

“With the holiday season in full effect, we might increase trip frequency the moment ridership improves. Our engineering department has certified the line to be passable, and our Operations and Rolling Stock departments made the necessary preparation for the extension of the service,” Magno said.

Apart from the Kogane train, two new train sets from Indonesia will arrive next week, the DOTr said.

"The train sets will be included in the PNR line under the Tutuban – FTI and Malabon – FTI routes," it said.

Photo courtesy of DOTR

Photo courtesy of DOTR

The PNR ordered a total of 37 rail cars from Indonesia, it added.

"On top of the two train sets comprised of three rail cars each that are due to arrive next week, 31 more coaches are set to be delivered from December 2019 to February 2020," the DOTr said.

"These shall form seven train sets of four- and five-car configurations," it said. — MDM, GMA News