The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
Issues on challenges and opportunities facing the country’s transportation system amidst rapid urbanization, increasing demand for mobility, and the global push for decarbonization were discussed during the 2025 Transportation Forum 2025 held last week at The Westin Manila, Ortigas, Mandaluyong City.
The event was organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) in partnership with Team Sweden were high-level dialogues, panel discussions, and breakout sessions that explored innovative approaches to creating a more efficient, safe, and sustainable transport ecosystem were held.
Throughout the day, speakers called for deeper collaboration between the government and private sector on areas such as: education of drivers, advancement of vehicle safety technologies, integration of smart transport infrastructure, and implementation of sustainable transport policies.
ECCP president Paulo Duarte, of Bosch Philippines, underscored the vital role of the transportation sector in the Philippine economy. “The transportation sector is the backbone of the Philippine economy. It connects our islands, links businesses to markets, and provides millions of Filipinos with access to jobs, education, and essential services. Yet challenges remain. Every year, more than 12,000 lives are lost in road crashes — with motorcyclists and young Filipinos most at risk.”
He noted that the economic toll is also heavy, amounting to around ₱105 billion annually in medical costs, lost productivity, and property damage. At the same time, the country’s road and rail infrastructure continues to struggle to keep pace with growing demand, while limited public transport options restrict mobility and hinder economic growth. However, he emphasized that the Forum is not only about highlighting these challenges, but also about exploring opportunities, fostering innovation, and encouraging collaboration.
From Team Sweden’s end, H.E. Anna Ferry, Ambassador at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Sweden in Manila Anna Ferry highlighted Sweden’s pioneering road safety initiative, Vision Zero – a policy framework that has halved road fatalities in Sweden since its adoption in 1997. “All lives matter. The goal of Vision Zero is to have zero fatalities or seriously injured from road accidents. Vision Zero is not just a transport policy, it’s a shared responsibility across sectors. Road safety is embedded in health, urban development, education including behavioral change, and enforcement frameworks. That systemic approach is crucial for diminishing the staggering number of fatalities and injured,”
She also cited Sweden’s support for the EDSA Busway Project and ongoing collaboration with the Philippine government through Swedfund, including studies to improve bus standards and reduce CO₂-emissions.
United Nation Special Envoy for Road Safety Jean Henri Todt delivered the keynote speech entitled “New Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030.” He emphasized the urgent and often overlooked crisis of road fatalities. “Globally, road deaths are nearly 10 times higher than war deaths — two deaths per minute,
1.2 million deaths per year. It is the world’s leading killer of children and youth from 5 to 29 years old.” He also said that governments must take the lead with comprehensive strategies, strong policies, enforceable laws, and coordinated action. Todt contrasted two possible futures: one marked by continued death, lost potential, and societal strain; the other defined by safe streets, healthier urban environments, stronger communities, and shared prosperity.
Various personalities from the government, academe, businesses and others were present during the 4-hour forum.