Infra projects to spur sustainable, inclusive growth in Mindanao

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is pushing for various transport infrastructure projects in Mindanao to spur sustainable and inclusive socio-economic growth in the region. 

Transport Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said transport infrastructure is one of the bright spots for Mindanao, aside from agriculture, digitalization and energy. 

“We should be working for sustainable and inclusive development in Mindanao,” Sec. Bautista said during the 1st Mindanao Infrastructure Summit in Davao City. 

The transport chief said the DOTr Notice of Award to a private concessionaire for the operation and maintenance of the Laguindingan Airport is the second successful modernizartion of a local airport after the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). 

With keen interest shown by private investors’ unsolicited proposals, Sec. Bautista added that airports in Zamboanga, Mati, M’lang, Jolo, Siargao, Tandag, Siargao, Bukidnon, and Zamboanga are also lined up for modernization. 

Another initiative, the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP), is expected to transform public transport in Metro Davao, according to Sec. Bautista. 

“The Davao Public Transport Modernization project is the country’s first-ever network solution to urban congestion,” the transport chief said. 

Under the DPTMP, Sec. Bautista said more than 600 kilometers of lanes will be designated for exclusive use by buses, including electric buses, modern jeepneys and other modes of public transport in Davao City. 

Sec. Bautista likewise cited the Mindanao Railway Project (MRP), involving the construction of over 2,000 kilometers of rail network connecting Mindanao’s major cities. 

The MRP’s Phase 1 alignment will traverse the areas of Tagum-Davao-Digos Cities, while its Phase 2 will cut across Cagayan de Oro City.