Makati to roll out electric buses next year

MANILA, Philippines — The city government of Makati will roll out electric buses as part of the P724-million public transportation master plan it is developing with the South Korean government, Mayor Abby Binay announced yesterday.

Binay signed an agreement with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to establish a smart public transport system, which is expected to start early next year.

“Apart from the Makati subway, this public transport system is in line with our efforts to transform Makati into a smart city,” Binay said.

“We need to upgrade our system because smart transportation is more convenient, safe and cost-effective for both the city and commuters than traditional frameworks,” she added.

The agreement includes the development of a public transport information and communications technology system, pilot operation of an electric vehicle bus service, establishment of EV bus depot and capacity building of officials and personnel.

Binay said the public transport system aims to provide affordable means of transportation and mitigate the impacts of climate change by reducing greenhouse emissions once the city’s public utility buses are running on electricity.

The local government’s agreement with KOICA involves over P724 million in South Korean state funding.

Binay said the city government would be overseeing the implementation of the project.

“We will provide the land for the construction of infrastructure needed for the project,” she said.