Privatization process for EDSA busway starts

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation has started soliciting the insights of the private sector for the planned privatization of the EDSA busway, the DOTr announced yesterday.

The DOTr said it began gathering feedback from investors who want to build, operate and maintain transport projects through the public-private partnership (PPP) scheme.

“The first batch of PPP projects include the EDSA busway and the North Long Haul Inter-Regional Railway from Metro Manila to Ilocos and Cagayan,” the DOTr said.

The department said it opted to prioritize the EDSA busway and the North Long Haul projects due to their impact on livability and sustainability.

“These projects will contribute to the improvement of transportation infrastructure and establishment of livable and sustainable communities,” the DOTr said.

The DOTr said it hopes to privatize the EDSA busway to ensure its funding in the long run, especially as the government no longer plans to pay for its maintenance.

The department said it would also gather insights for the privatization of the Pasig River ferry system.

Based on data, the Pasig River ferry system services more than 400 passengers daily in Metro Manila, from Manila to Marikina City.