MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has welcomed the entry of the country’s first hybrid passenger buses, describing the move as a major step toward environment-friendly modernization of public transportation in the Philippines.
LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said the rollout of the new fleet aligns with the government’s Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), which seeks to upgrade public utility vehicles while reducing carbon emissions and operating costs.
Genesis Transport Inc. introduced the 10 units of hybrid buses that will serve commuters between Balanga City in Bataan and the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX).
“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,” Mendoza said.
He added that the new buses could significantly reduce fuel expenses, noting that one kilowatt of electricity consumption is equivalent to one liter of diesel. While electricity costs range from about ₱11 to ₱13.50 per kilowatt, diesel prices currently exceed ₱50 per liter.
“So imagine the savings in operational costs, not to mention the low maintenance cost,” Mendoza said, adding that the shift could encourage more transport operators to invest in hybrid or electric fleets.
The LTFRB, a key implementing agency of the PTMP, said priorities include route rationalization and the gradual shift to modern and electric vehicles. Mendoza expressed confidence that the entry of hybrid buses would be a “gamechanger” for the bus transport sector and a signal for more companies to follow suit.
