DOTr, ADB ink agreements to fast-track transportation projects
By Trixee Rosel

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has partnered with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to expedite the facility management of key transportation projects under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
The DOTr and ADB have signed agreements for transaction advisory services covering the operations and maintenance of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3), the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP), and the Philippine Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) project.
DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said the agreements underscored the strong cooperative ties between ADB, the PPP Center, and DOTr.
"These agreements for ADB transaction services will help us fast-track project structuring towards a better commuting experience while ensuring these are compliant with global standards," Bautista said.
He highlighted the importance of continuing MRT Line 3 operations well in advance of its official turnover to the government.
Bautista also noted that DOTr will work closely with ADB to establish optimal protocols for the DPTMP, which was launched earlier this year.
Furthermore, he pointed out that ADB’s technical assistance extends the concession agreement for the AFCS, which plays a crucial role in modernizing Davao's transport system and improving fare collection efficiency.
"This Davao transport modernization and automatic fare collection projects are major strides in transforming public transport, even when they are still years from completion," Bautista said.