Makati prepares to deploy electric buses 

Makati Mayor Abby Binay today said that the city will soon introduce electric buses to the riding public after she signed an agreement with officials of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to establish a smart public transport system.

“Apart from the Makati Subway, this new public transport system is in line with our efforts to transform Makati into a smart city. We need to upgrade our systems because smart transportation is more convenient, safe, and cost-effective for both the city and commuters than traditional frameworks,” she said.

Mayor Abby said the smart public transport system will provide commuters with an affordable means of transportation.

She also said that the project will mitigate the impacts of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions since the eco-friendly buses are powered by electricity. 

The mayor led the signing ceremony together with Kim Eunsub, KOICA country director, Yoo Jiyoung, KOICA deputy country director, and Francis Afable, KOICA program manager.

The project involves the development of a public transportation master plan, establishment of a public transport information and communications technology (ICT) system, pilot operation of electric vehicle (EV) bus service, establishment of an EV bus depot, and capacity building of officials and personnel.

Mayor Abby said that KOICA will shell out US$13 million for the smart public transport system, including the design and construction of an EV bus depot, control tower, and EV buses; and management of the automatic fare collection system, fleet management system, and mobile passenger information system.

Meanwhile, the city government will provide lands for the construction of the EV bus depot and parking area, oversee the implementation of the project, and secure a sufficient amount from its budget to cover the expenses required for the operation of the project, including the cost of proper storage, utilities for operation, and maintenance of ICT system and EV buses.

Mayor Abby also said that the construction of the EV bus depot, control center, ICT system, and other facilities will start during the first quarter of 2023 and is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2025.