Baguio: Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) has been tasked with updating the feasibility study for its proposed Smart Urban Mobility Project (SUMP) as the City Council evaluates the proposal for a potential public-private partnership. Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized the necessity for an updated study since the original was completed three years ago.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Magalong highlighted the need for evidence-based data to tackle the city's traffic congestion effectively. The Land Transportation Office reports that Baguio has 57,000 registered vehicles, a number that continues to grow daily. Magalong stressed that innovative, data-driven solutions are crucial for easing road congestion.

For years, the Baguio City Police Office's Traffic Management Branch, alongside local officials, has implemented various traffic schemes with limited success, particularly during peak tourism seasons. Magalong's proposal for a smart mobility system aims to provide a long-term solution to these persistent traffic issues.

Over three years ago, MPTC submitted an unsolicited proposal featuring advanced transport technologies, including a monorail system to serve the central business district. This proposal was initially shelved but has now been revived for further review. The plan also includes a monorail network connecting the central business district with surrounding villages to decrease the number of public utility vehicles on city streets.

An earlier initiative to impose a PHP250 congestion fee for vehicles using Session Road was withdrawn after receiving negative public feedback. Magalong noted the daily challenges commuters face, such as long waits and traffic jams, underscoring the importance of pursuing the SUMP as a comprehensive solution.

During a recent City Development Council meeting, MPTC announced its collaboration with a firm specializing in artificial intelligence-powered traffic analytics to prepare the updated feasibility study. The proof of concept for the project is anticipated to be completed within three months.