CALOOCAN CITY, (PIA) -- Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Planning and Project Development Timothy John Batan presented the game-changing projects and programs of the DOTr for the country’s transportation system, at the 43rd National Conference of Employers hosted by the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) on Wednesday, Aug. 24.

“When we invest in infrastructure, we create jobs. The projects we build also translate to increased labor productivity. The momentum is there, spurred by the last administration’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ initiative. And we aspire to Build Better, Build More,” Usec. Batan said.

Speaking before the corporate executives, top government officials and labor industry experts as one of the speakers for the conference’s 3rd plenary session entitled “Enabling Policy Reforms for Industry-led Job Creation,” Usec. Batan bared the DOTr’s plans under the new administration, to innovate, adapt, and address emerging transport issues, to support employers and enable job creation.

For the railways sector, Usec. Batan presented the much-awaited Metro Manila Subway, North-South Commuter Railway System (NSCR), Common Station, MRT-7, and LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project.

He also discussed the plans to continuously improve the capacity and capability of the country’s existing airports and build new gateways.

For the maritime sector, Usec. Batan emphasized the thrust of the DOTr and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), to finish the ongoing port projects coast-to-coast. He likewise cited the Pasig River Ferry System, Sorsogon RoRo Terminal Port, and the New Cebu International Container Port Project, and the Maritime Safety Enhancement Project for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Lastly, for the road sector, Usec. Batan highlighted the DOTr’s initiatives to provide commuter assistance, such as the Libreng Sakay under the Service Contracting Program. He also mentioned the EDSA Greenways, EDSA Busway, Cebu Bus Rapid Transit, and PUV Modernization.

“This is how we are shaping the country’s transportation landscape—by providing accessible, affordable, comfortable, and safe public transport, we are uplifting the lives of the Filipino people,” he added. (DOTr/PIA-NCR)