The Philippines’ public transport sector has taken a significant step toward modernization with the introduction of hybrid passenger buses, a move welcomed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). The agency emphasized that the deployment of these buses supports the government’s broader Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), which aims to improve public utility vehicles while also reducing carbon emissions and overall operating costs.
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Hybrid Buses Bring Cost Savings and Efficiency
Genesis Transport, Inc. recently launched 10 units of hybrid buses to serve commuters along the Balanga City, Bataan–Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) route. “Discussions usually focus on modern jeepneys under the PTMP, but the introduction of hybrid passenger buses is a very welcome development in our efforts to modernize and improve the public transport system,” LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said, highlighting the importance of the new fleet in modernizing the system.
Mendoza further pointed out that hybrid buses offer substantial cost savings for operators. “So imagine the savings in operational costs, not to mention the low maintenance cost,” he added, explaining that a kilowatt of electricity, equivalent to a liter of diesel, costs between P11 and P13.50, compared to over P50 per liter of diesel. He also noted that the shift to hybrid and electric vehicles could encourage more transport companies to adopt greener and more efficient fleets.
Boost for Commuters and the Environment
As part of the PTMP, the LTFRB continues to focus on priorities such as route rationalization and the gradual transition to modern and electric vehicles. Mendoza expressed optimism that the arrival of hybrid buses would serve as a “game-changer” for the bus transport sector and inspire other companies to follow suit. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez also lauded the initiative, recognizing the positive impact of the hybrid buses in improving mobility for commuters between Balanga City and PITX.
The entry of hybrid buses means more reliable and cost-efficient travel, while the country benefits from reduced carbon emissions and a cleaner urban environment. The modernization push could also lower fare costs in the long term and encourage the expansion of eco-friendly transport solutions nationwide.
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