Gov’t to tap consultant for Edsa busway feasibility study

The Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines is currently assessing potential consultants for the feasibility study on the privatization of the Edsa Busway system, according to a Department of Transportation (DOTr) official.

Transportation Undersecretary for Planning and Project Development Timothy John Batan told reporters they were targeting to identify the consultant this month or by March “at the latest” in order to finally begin with the study.

The feasibility study, which could take six to nine months, would determine the direction of the public-private partnership project (PPP), he added.

“There are different ways to structure the Edsa Busway,” he said, noting the government can have a single partner or separate entities in-charge of bus operation and station development.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista had said they were eyeing to open the bidding of the contract for the privatization of the Edsa Busway in the first half of this year.

The concession agreement includes the operations and maintenance of the bus stations, he said, noting this could also include the construction of additional infrastructure, if needed.

Infrawatch PH previously urged the government to take into consideration the plight of daily commuters in the feasibility study.

“The core of any proposed PPP should focus on improving the commuter experience, such as shorter wait times and adequate protection from extreme weather conditions,” the think tank had said.

Infrawatch said fares should not be higher than the current rates.