On February 25, Swedfund and Team Sweden partners announced a 3 million SEK (16 million PHP) grant to support the EDSA Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, reinforcing Sweden’s commitment to sustainable development in the Philippines.
Swedish and Philippine officials signed the agreement during a visit by Mrs. Diana Janse, Swedish State Secretary for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, who experienced the system firsthand by riding a Volvo bus along the EDSA Busway from Makati to Pasig.
“Sweden is committed to supporting the Philippines’ sustainable development goals. Efficient public transportation has a major impact on urban development and economic growth,” said State Secretary Janse.
Anna Älgevik, Acting Director for Project Accelerator at Swedfund, emphasized their goal to create efficient and inclusive transportation solutions benefiting people and the environment. Swedfund, Sweden’s development finance institution, began its partnership with DOTr in 2018 and has contributed about 10 million SEK previously.
DOTr Undersecretary Jesus Fernando Ortega described the extension as a commitment to continuously improving public transport through Swedish expertise and local dedication.
The partnership aims to showcase Sweden’s innovative, energy-efficient solutions aligned with the Philippines’ objectives for commuter-friendly urban transport. Swedfund also supports public transportation development in the Iloilo-Guimaras Metropolitan Area.
Team Sweden, comprising the Swedish Embassy, Business Sweden, and Swedish companies, participates in other transport sectors including rail and aviation. The group recently launched the Bus Transit Innovation Platform in Cebu to introduce advanced transportation solutions for Philippine public transit systems.
Sweden, recognized for its sustainability rankings and efficient public transportation, continues to position itself as a reliable partner to the Philippines.
