4 bus firms to field units powered by CNG this yr

The Department of Energy (DOE) said at least four bus companies would start fielding buses running on compressed natural gas (CNG) within this year.

Last June 29, the DOE and the bus operators signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on the implementation of the government’s Natural Gas Vehicle Program for Public Transport Pilot Project.

The program, launched by President Arroyo in October 2002, aims to encourage the use of natural gas as alternative fuel for public transport to address pollution problems as well as enhance the role of natural gas in the country’s energy mix.

The government was represented by the DOE, Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO). The bus operators were HM Transport, Inc., De Guia Enterprise Inc., NGV AdBus and First CNG Inc.

Energy Secretary Vincent S. Perez said the bus operators committed to initiate the purchase of CNG buses within two months following the signing of the MOA. This means that a number of CNG buses could start plying EDSA by the end of the year.

To ensure that CNG buses start plying the major routes, the LTFRB has committed to fasttrack the facilitation and approval of certificate of public convenience (CPC). The LTO also said it would speed up the registration as well as the conduct of emission tests of CNG buses.

The DOE, in cooperation with the Malampaya natural gas consortium led by Shell Philippines Exploration B.V., Chevron Texaco and Philippine National Oil Co., would ensure the continuous supply of natural gas, first by completing the necessary infrastructure and support facilities, in particular the construction of refilling station.

The DOTC, on the other hand, said it would provide preferential attention to duly accredited natural gas vehicles operators in granting new and exclusive franchises.

"With this MOA, we are very hopeful that we will see CNG buses plying our major thoroughfares, a major step forward in cleaning our air," Perez said.