MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. praised on Wednesday the P73.38-billion Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP) calling it a game-changing initiative that could serve as a template for public transport systems in other urban centers.

“So once completed, this is certainly, as they call it, a game changer. This project will become the template for public transport systems in other cities in our country,” President Marcos said during the Ceremonial Signing of the Civil Works Contracts for the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project in Davao City.

“As a mass transport system, this people mover will provide faster and more comfortable commutes whilst decongesting streets filled with private vehicles, and improve road traffic.

The President said as an affordable and clean mode of transport, it will “neither burn a hole in the pockets of our people, nor a bigger one in our ozone layer.”

As a catalyst for a lifestyle change, the project shows a feasible alternative to commuting by private vehicles that can be left behind at home without compromising people’s work or school schedules, he said.

To succeed, the DPTMP requires the support of the local government, the people, and the backing of parties who will help us bankroll the initiative, said Marcos, as he expressed appreciation to the local leaders for fully backing the project.

The DPTMP is a 672-kilometer bus route network serving 29 interconnected routes with 400 articulated battery electric buses and more than 500 diesel buses.

It seeks to deliver a high-quality bus-based public transportation system envisioned to ensure mobility and accessibility for Davao City’s growing population and economy.

Upon completion, it will serve approximately 800,000 passengers every day and generate approximately 3,000 jobs.

The transport project is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan, with additional component from the national government and local government unit. (PND)