The Philippines’ Department of Transportation (DOTr) plans to begin partial operations of the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP) in the first quarter of 2028, according to Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez. The bus rapid transit-style project is intended to modernize public transport in Davao City by introducing a fleet of modern electric and Euro-5 diesel buses supported by intelligent transport systems and upgraded passenger infrastructure.
The USD1.014 billion project, financed through a loan agreement signed with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in July 2023, will deploy nearly 1,000 buses, including 386 electric buses, across 29 routes covering a 672.95 km road network. The project also includes the implementation of standardized bus operations, intelligent transport systems, designated bus stops with shelters and lighting, and dedicated bus lanes along selected corridors to improve service reliability and operational efficiency.
Once fully operational, the DPTMP is expected to serve approximately 800,000 passengers per day, providing a safer, more reliable and environmentally sustainable public transport system while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. The project forms part of the DOTr’s broader national public transport modernization programme.