“Enhancing mobility” seems to be the mantra of Secretary Vince Dizon and his Department of Transportation.
Taking up the cudgels for commuters, the DOTr chief is prioritizing high-capacity mass transportation systems and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to make commuting more convenient and comfortable, allowing people to reclaim valuable time for work, family, and personal well-being.
He emphasizes that “the future of urban mobility lies not in expanding roads for private vehicles but in developing efficient public transit options.”
During a late-night TV news program, Dizon said the government aims to reduce congestion and enhance productivity by encouraging car owners to switch to reliable public transport systems.
“We are fast-tracking infrastructure projects that make commuting seamless and accessible for everyone,” Dizon said.
Ignoring criticisms against the projects’ feasibility and costs, Dizon is bent on “building high-capacity mass transit, expanding walkways for pedestrians, and promoting cycling routes, which are key elements of our strategy.”
The DOTr’s website enumerated some of the ongoing projects:
· Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) – A transformative underground railway system that will ease congestion in the capital.
· North-South Commuter Railway System (NSCR): This system will connect Metro Manila to nearby provinces, significantly reducing travel time.
· EDSA Busway Modernization – Upgrading one of the busiest corridors to enhance the commuter experience.
· MRT-7 Expansion – Improving connectivity within Metro Manila and beyond.
Once fully operational, these projects will dramatically reduce travel time between Pampanga, Bulacan, and Metro Manila from four hours to 30 minutes to one hour, the DOTr chief said.
Dizon described this shift as a game-changer, allowing commuters to spend less time stuck in traffic and more time with loved ones, pursuing opportunities, and enhancing their quality of life.
A sobering note
The Coalition of Filipino Commuters, chaired by Ira Panganiban, agrees with Secretary Vince Dizon’s vision of encouraging car owners to use public transportation instead.
However, Panganiban said public transportation must be improved to the point where it is safe, convenient, and easily accessible before car owners even consider using it.
“As it is, we commuters do not see the government taking serious steps even as we continue to suffer from inefficient railway transport, worn-out jeepneys and buses, and inconvenient public transportation. We appreciate and recognize Dizon’s effort, but we expect real action,” the CFC chairman said.
It has been proven to be done with strong political will, as the EDSA Bus Carousel has. But EDSA is not the Philippines; it is not even Metro Manila. According to Panganiban, it is a 30-kilometer solution in a congested and commuter-troublesome urban area.
“We need more of this to help alleviate the already complicated life of the Filipino commuting working class,” he said.
Alongside infrastructure improvements, the DOTr also tightens the rules and enforcement against dangerous driving practices.
Through the Land Transportation Office (LTO), the agency has suspended 671 driver’s licenses and revoked one license due to reckless behavior.
“To our commuting public, we want you to know that upon the President’s directive, we will protect you from abusive drivers,” Dizon assured during a press briefing.
Further disciplinary actions included:
· 574 drivers suspended for causing road crashes that led to injuries and fatalities.
· 97 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers suspended for testing positive for illegal drugs during the Holy Week.
Dizon clarified that the administration will not tolerate irresponsible driving, stating, “We are sending a strong message to everyone—whether you drive a bus, jeepney, or any public transport—we do not tolerate hooliganism.”
