This steam locomotive on display at Riverbanks Mall in Marikina is a historic reminder of the Philippines' sugar industry railway heritage. This locomotive, a Baldwin-built steam engine, is a classic representation of early 20th-century steam trains that once operated in the country. Baldwin Locomotive Works, an American manufacturer, produced many of the engines used in the Philippine sugar industry during that era.
The locomotive was placed as a static display to honor the legacy of rail travel in the Philippines, where steam trains played a significant role in connecting various regions before diesel and electric trains took over.
It’s popular among visitors for photos, especially because of its vintage design and the nostalgia it evokes. However, the security guard on the day seemed unconcerned about such interest, preferring to try to chase off the man with a dangerous camera.
The locomotive is not operational but serves as an educational piece, giving people a chance to appreciate the machinery that was central to Philippine transport history.
If you're interested in steam train history or railway memorabilia, this display is worth visiting to get a sense of the past railway era in the Philippines.
It is one of four known preserved steam locomotives in the Metro Manila area, and possibly the most easily accessed at this time.
Built For: Pampanga Sugar Development Company
Builder: Baldwin Locomotive Works (USA)
Build #: 60506
Year: 1928
Arrangement: 2-6-0
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