The Department of Transportation on Tuesday said it was planning a bus rapid transit system in Davao, with full operability targetted for the third quarter of 2023.
"We have been pushing for the realization of several bus rapid transit systems and busways across the country, in order to make the movement of public utility vehicles more efficient, effective, and seamless," Transport Sec. Arthur Tugade said in a Facebook post.
The Davao Public Transport Modernization Project, better know as High Priority Bus System (HPBS), aims to provide Davaoeñeos improved public transportation services and infrastructure too.
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"At present, the conduct of Conceptual Engineering Designs to Preliminary Engineering Design, as well as the loan processing of the project are currently ongoing," Tugade added.
A 626-kilometer road network will be covered by the HPBS and is set offer interconnected bus services to accommodate 800,000 passengers daily. The project covers 3 major components:
- Public Transport System Improvement
- Institutional Capacity Strengthening
- Social Development Program (SDP)
In terms of infrastructure and services, the following will be developed:
- 5 depots
- 3 terminals
- a driving school
- installation of 1,075 bus stops
- pedestrian improvements
Apart from buses and trains, Filipinos also took to bikes to get to places when public transportation systems were closed due to pandemic restrictions. Even as lockdowns lifted, cyclists kept biking to move around, prompting demand infrastructure and systems that ensured safe and accessible biking.
Over the past few months, the Department of Transportation unveiled bike lane networks in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao to strengthen active transport in the country.
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