with Almira Louise S. MartinezA reporter
Employee safety and digital training are priorities for improving the country’s rail services, according to the Department of Transportation (DoTr).
With technical assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), DoTr Undersecretary Anneli R. Lontoc said the Philippine Railway Institute (PRI) recently started using new technology to help improve safety training.
“That’s the latest thing we’re including in our training curriculum – digitalization,” he said at the 2nd Philippine Railway Conference.
Ms Lontoc added that the department has purchased more equipment and is looking forward to developing the role of virtual reality (VR) in safety training.
“The digitization of PRI’s training modules is a clear demonstration of internationalization,” said Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista.
PRI has produced 3,300 trained workers out of 3,700 railway workers, making it a stable provider of skilled operators.
Occupational health and safety policy
Although the DoTr embraces modern technology, Mr. Bautista also emphasized the importance of the safety and security of workers.
“Attention to safety and security should not be reduced as we promote digitization and efficiency in training,” he said. “Training train workers are only one side, the side takes care of them.”
The DoTr is committed to developing an occupational safety and health (OSH) policy for the railway sector to improve the welfare of workers.
“This policy will mandate protection and benefits for railway workers to encourage them to do their best at all times and ensure the safety and security of all passengers,” said Mr. Bautista.
With these plans, he added that the department is pushing for ‘renewal’ in the country’s railway industry.
“We can restore the glory of Philippine railways with modern and environmentally friendly trains, comfortable rides and efficient operation.”
Source link
