
ILOILO City – The Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC) and Swedfund International have entered into a grant agreement to conduct a feasibility study for the proposed Metro Iloilo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
This collaboration aims to assess the viability of implementing a BRT system in Iloilo, focusing on improving public transportation efficiency and infrastructure.
The feasibility study will encompass various aspects, including route selection, station design, operational planning, and financial analysis.
By leveraging Swedfund’s expertise in sustainable infrastructure development, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the BRT project’s potential impact on local mobility and economic growth.
In a formal ceremony yesterday, Acting Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon signed on behalf of MIGEDC chairperson, Mayor Jerry Treñas, to finalize the grant agreement for the Metro Iloilo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) feasibility study with Swedfund International.
Representing Swedfund was Ambassador Harald Fries, the Head of Mission of the Embassy of Sweden.
The event was attended by key figures, including Johan Lennefalk, Trade Commissioner to the Philippines; Giselle Yap, Senior Trade Promotions Officer from the Swedish Embassy; and Mae Balandan, a consultant from Business Sweden.
Such an initiative aligns with Iloilo’s broader objectives to enhance its public transport network, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable urban development.
Ganzon expressed enthusiasm for the Metro Iloilo BRT project, highlighting the significance of the partnership with Swedfund International.
“This partnership with Swedfund International is a key milestone in our goal to develop a modern, efficient, and sustainable transportation system for Iloilo,” said Ganzon.
He also noted the feasibility study will give a clear path forward toward realizing the Metro Iloilo BRT system, a critical project for the future of our city and nearby municipalities, including the Province of Guimaras.
“This grant assistance, to be utilized for the conduct of a feasibility study for a better and integrated public transport service for Metro Iloilo, will reshape our landscape so that we can be better prepared for what the future holds,” said Ganzon.
He also expressed gratitude on behalf of the Ilonggos, surrounding towns like Oton, Leganes, Pavia, Santa Barbara, Cabatuan, San Miguel, and the province of Guimaras, stating that Ilonggos will remember the support extended by the Kingdom of Sweden for this transformative project.
Ambassador Harald Fries emphasized Sweden’s commitment to supporting sustainable development projects in the Philippines.
“Sweden is proud to support Iloilo’s aspirations for a more efficient and sustainable public transport system. Through this collaboration, we aim to provide innovative solutions that not only improve urban mobility but also enhance the quality of life for residents of Iloilo,” he said.
Velma Jane Lao, head of the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO) , emphasized that the feasibility study will provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders, shaping the strategic planning and future implementation of the Metro Iloilo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
“We are hoping that this study will solve the traffic congestion in Metro Iloilo. After the study, we hope it will attract investors that will fund the project,” she said.
The Swedfund grant highlights the strong and enduring relationship between Sweden and the Philippines, underscoring the former’s commitment to supporting local governments like Iloilo in their efforts to strengthen key industries such as transportation and infrastructure.
Funded through the grant from Swedfund, the feasibility study will assess the viability of establishing a bus rapid transport system in Metro Iloilo and Guimaras, aimed at addressing the growing demand for modern public transport services.
The study will include technical assessments, financial projections, and environmental and social impact analyses to ensure that the proposed system is sustainable and beneficial to the local community.
The partnership between Iloilo and Swedfund reflects a shared vision of creating more livable and sustainable cities, setting the stage for further cooperation in infrastructure development between Sweden and the Philippines./PN