DOTr seeks help from PPP for EDSA busway privatization

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 27) — The Department of Transportation has sought the assistance of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center to create a feasibility study for its plan to privatize the EDSA busway.

Speaking to CNN Philippines’ Traffic Center on Thursday, Transportation Undersecretary. Mark Steven Pastor said target completion for the study is within the next six to eight months.

“As of today, the department sought the assistance of the private-public partnership or PPP center in the development of the feasibility study for the privatization of certain components of the EDSA busway,” Pastor said.

“It is the position of the department now to explore the possibility of a privatization of the operations and maintenance of the EDSA busway so that we can provide better service to our riding public,” he added.

READ: DOTr eyes privatization of EDSA busway by 2023

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in an earlier media interview said the government has no plans to privatize "anything." 

Meanwhile, Pastor said the department is also considering programs for discounted fares including possible seasonal free rides.

“Regarding the possibility of a fare discount, the various contracting programs may adopt other strategies such as seasonal free rides to the public,” the official said.

He added that the department is also mulling over the program's co-implementation scheme with local government units.

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