Iloilo City has been identified as one of the pilot areas for the Area-Focused Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), a joint initiative of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the World Bank aimed at improving commuter experience and building a more efficient, sustainable urban transport system.
The development was highlighted during a presentation and Local Government Unit (LGU) engagement held at Iloilo City Hall, where DOTr and World Bank representatives met with city officials led by Raisa Treñas. The session gathered members of the City Planning Office, the Transportation Committee, and the Iloilo City Traffic and Transportation Management Office (ICTTMO), along with representatives from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Regional Office VI headed by Regional Director Richard Z. Osmeña.
Area-Focused Approach to Modernization
Iloilo City is among the targeted Highly Urbanized Cities included in the pilot program design. The Area-Focused PTMP introduces a new model that goes beyond vehicle replacement and franchise consolidation. Instead, it emphasizes:
- Developing fit-for-purpose routes based on updated origin–destination patterns
- Increasing route penetration in neighborhoods to improve last-mile connectivity
- Enhancing overall efficiency, reliability, and commuter experience
- Strengthening alignment with the city’s Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP)
During the dialogue, key issues and operational concerns related to the LPTRP were presented and discussed, giving transport stakeholders the opportunity to share insights and explore strategic solutions.
The World Bank team also outlined innovative, area-focused strategies designed to support a seamless transition toward a modern, road-based public transport network.
Commitment to Sustainable Mobility
Mayor Treñas underscored the city government’s careful review of the proposed framework, emphasizing that modernization must translate into tangible benefits for Ilonggos.
“I-review anay naton sang maayo ini bangud katuyuan naton ang mas maayo, sustainable, kag mas accessible nga public transport system para sa tanan nga Ilonggo,” the mayor said.
Following a similar engagement in Bacolod City, Iloilo’s inclusion signals strong national confidence in the city’s readiness to pilot reforms aligned with sustainable urban mobility goals.
With continued collaboration among national agencies, local government units, and transport stakeholders, Iloilo City moves a step closer to building a safer, more inclusive, and future-ready transportation system — one that keeps pace with its rapid growth and evolving mobility needs.
