Manila: Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon has pledged to continue and expedite the completion of existing transportation projects, aiming to streamline and enhance the country’s infrastructure.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dizon emphasized the importance of continuity in completing transport projects, which he said would significantly benefit the public. He stated, “Kailangan habang pinapasa ang baton, imbes na bumabagal, kailangan pang pinapabilis. Kailangan natin magtrabaho ng mas maigi, kailangan natin pabilisin ito,” highlighting the need to speed up rather than slow down project progression.
Dizon pointed out several major initiatives, including the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), Metro Manila Subway, and the privatization of regional airports. He also mentioned the EDSA Busway and the construction of the EDSA Greenways Project as critical projects under his administration. “Let’s roll up our sleeves and let’s get to work to get things done,” Dizon asserted.
He further discussed the role of privatization and public-private partnerships (PPP) in enhancing the transport infrastructure. Dizon noted that seeking more PPPs would be pivotal for improving transport services, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision.
Dizon commended the efforts of former DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, particularly in the privatization of several transport projects, such as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Laguindingan Airport, and Bohol-Panglao International Airport. “The biggest contribution of Sec. Jimmy in such a short span of time is really the massive privatization effort beginning obviously with the NAIA privatization,” he remarked.
Additionally, Dizon revealed plans for the privatization of the operations and maintenance of the EDSA Busway and the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3). He mentioned that the feasibility study for the EDSA Busway is nearing completion, with contract awarding anticipated by the end of 2026. Meanwhile, the terms of reference for MRT-3 are being developed collaboratively by the DOTr, the PPP Center, and the Asian Development Bank.