Uncertainty looms over Philippines' modernized transport goal

THE PHILIPPINES' ambition to reshape and modernize the long-neglected mass transportation system is still in limbo but analysts say it may still be achievable if the government recalibrates its approach.

- Ashley Erika O. Jose

"It is not easy to commute in the country, it's a struggle, it is not safe," former Transportation Secretary Vivencio "Vince" B. Dizon said, echoing the sentiment of millions of Filipinos who endure long lines at rail stations and hours of traffic in congested streets.

Mr. Dizon, who took the helm of the Department of Transportation (DoTr) in February 2025, said they're now focusing on fast-tracking its projects and implementing improvements.

"We are continuing our efforts to complete projects that will better the commuting experience of the public," he added.

The government is refining the feasibility studies of its stalled and long-delayed projects to ensure the completion of the DoTr's priority projects by 2028.

For instance, the agency is working on a new study for the Mindanao Railway project one of the country's most awaited rail projects to assess the feasibility of the use of more modern and environment-friendly trains.

The original plan for the Mindanao Railway involved diesel-powered trains but projects involving non-electrified railways are having difficulty attracting investors over global warming concerns.

"Almost the entire Mindanao will benefit when (the Mindanao railway project) is fully completed. Rail is good for such a big island like Mindanao, with huge passenger and cargo demand in many provinces," Nigel Paul C. Villarete, senior adviser on PPP (public-private partnership) at the technical advisory group Libra Konsult, Inc. told Business World.

The Mindanao railway system is considered a good project for Mindanao as the rail line will cover a sizable demand.

The DoTr has said earlier that it is considering enlisting the private sector for the Mindanao railway project as the government scrambles to put together funding after China bowed out of the project.