PNR reminds public: It’s not liable if motorists are hit because they ignored warnings

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) is not liable for any motorists who choose to ignore the barriers and warnings and insist on going over the tracks even when a train is about to pass through.

"Actually wala kaming pananagutan. Kaya lang kung may casualty, for humanitarian consideration nagbibigay ang PNR. Pero as far as damage to their vehicles or whatever wala kaming pananagutan," PNR spokesperson Joseline Geronimo said in a report by Steve Dailisan on 24 Oras on Wednesday.

The national railway company stressed its policy as motorists continue on to the tracks even when the road ahead is full. One video caught a train actually slowing to a stop and honking its horn like a regular vehicle at the cars stopped in its path.

"Minsan ano po, pag binababa namin, lumalampas, nababagsakan ng barrier... 'Yung iba po nagagalit," crossing keeper Larry Soliva said.

"Merong enforcer sana na anuhin yung sa riles. Mas maganda ho sana," he added.

The PNR reminded motorists that trains run an average of 10 kilometers per hour near crossings, but will need a 10- to 20-meter distance before their brakes can take effect if they are running faster than 10 kph and have at least five cars attached.

PNR said there were at least 25 incidents on the rails last year. The company will look into possible sanctions it can impose on motorists who fail to abide by railway crossing regulations. For now, they are urging motorists to obey road rules for their own safety. — Rie Takumi/BM, GMA News