Makati City, KOICA ink partnership for ‘smart’ public transpo system

The city government of Makati and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have entered a partnership for the establishment of a new "smart" public transportation system.

Makati City and KOICA on Wednesday signed an agreement to create a transportation service using eco-friendly electronic (EV) buses.

The agreement was signed by Mayor Abby Binay and KOICA country director Kim Eunsub.

Through the Korean Embassy, KOICA will provide US$13 million for the project titled “Establishment of Smart Public Transport System in Makati City.”

“The envisioned public transport system in Makati City would provide citizens with a safe, efficient, accessible, and eco-friendly mode of transportation,” Kim said.

Under the five-year partnership, KOICA and Makati City will develop a Public Transportation Master Plan, launch a Public Transport ICT System, operate an EV bus service, and construct an EV bus depot.

The operation of EV buses would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impact of climate change, according to KOICA.

Meanwhile, Binay said the project is part of the city government’s efforts to make Makati not just a smart city, but environmentally friendly as well. 

“Our initiatives towards a greener and cleaner use of renewable energy are only the first as there will be a series of several projects that we will be entering into,” Binay said.

The Mayor added that the smart public transport system will provide commuters with an affordable means of transportation. — Mel Matthew Doctor/BM, GMA News