The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) framework, under development in the prominent cities of Cebu and Davao, has the capability to alleviate the mass transit deficit and chronic traffic issues in Metro Manila.
During a recent symposium that convened representatives from the Department of Transportation (DoTr), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), along with advocates for enhanced mobility within the Philippines, the advantages of BRT were highlighted and it may be crucial for reducing congestion on the thoroughfares of Metro Manila and addressing the mass transit insufficiency.
As noted by Gonggom Sitanggang of the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP), a worldwide entity at the forefront of crafting and executing transport frameworks and policy initiatives, although the current EDSA Busway system offers a superior mobility experience, there remains potential for enhancements to make public commuting simpler, more inclusive, and widely accessible.
Mr. Sintanggang clarified that due to significantly reduced capital expenditures and quicker construction timelines, BRT can accommodate more passengers compared to rail systems.
Furthermore, he mentioned that the BRT could transport five times the number of passengers when compared to a standard bus, making it particularly suitable for densely populated areas like Metro Manila.
“As urban areas expand, BRT facilitates an efficient, inclusive, and scalable public transportation system that meets contemporary challenges and future demands,” Mr. Sintanggang articulated during AltMobility PH’s Philippine Mobility Series 2025, co-hosted by the DoTr in collaboration with Grab, Makati Business Club, Inc., and the Move As One Coalition on July 25.
He shared insights from Jakarta, where the transition to a BRT framework has allowed the Indonesian capital to overcome its public transport inadequacies at a minimal capital investment and shorter construction time.
Atty. Booey Bonifacio of Grab Philippines remarked that this exclusive session with ITDP, mobility advocates, and government transport representatives presents an excellent opportunity to glean insights from Jakarta’s enhancements in public transport services.
“Grab, in its support of AltMobility PH’s Philippine Mobility Series, facilitates meaningful engagement between the government, non-government organizations, civil society groups, and the academic community,” she stated. “Our aim is to collaboratively develop solutions for improved mobility in the Philippines via these mobility discussions.”
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