The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to take on an advisory role in key projects meant to boost the delivery of transport services in the country.
The agreements relate to the operations and maintenance of the MRT-3, the Davao Public Transport Modernization (DPTMP), and the Philippine Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) project, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said.
Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said the agreements are testament to the collaborative relations between the ADB, the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center and the DOTr.
“These agreements for ADB transaction services will help us fast-track project structuring towards a better commuting experience, while ensuring these are compliant to global standards,” Bautista said.
He cited the need for MRT Line 3 operations to continue a year before ownership of the rail line reverts back to the government.
Also, the DOTr will determine the best protocol for the operations and maintenance of the DPTMP which launched only last February.
Bautista said engaging the ADB’s technical expertise extends the concession agreement of the AFCS program.
“The Davao transport modernization and AFCS projects are major strides in transforming public transport, even when they are still years from completion,” Bautista said.
