Davao city: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is accelerating construction of the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP) to provide local commuters with a faster, safer and more reliable ride, while setting the system as a blueprint for other Philippine cities. In a news release Friday, Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez emphasized that delays would no longer be tolerated. He said the timeline for the partial operations of the DPTMP in the fourth quarter of 2027 must be followed.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lopez stated during the inspection of the Calinan depot and driving school on Thursday that construction works will run 24/7 to recover lost time. He emphasized the importance of resolving any issues promptly to ensure the project's timely completion. Lopez remarked on the potential of the DPTMP to serve as a model for other cities, highlighting the necessity of starting the project in Davao.

He also reminded the contractor to obtain all necessary permits and comply with labor laws, ensuring that the work being done by the construction workers remains compliant. The accelerated work includes terminals, depots, bus stops, and a driving school. Lopez said the DOTr is coordinating with the Davao City government to fast-track permits, right-of-way acquisition, and other institutional requirements, to which city officials pledged full support.

Once completed, the 672-kilometer DPTMP, also called DavaoBus, is expected to serve about 800,000 commuters daily, operating 386 electric buses, 531 regular buses, and 188 mini buses.