Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have been at the core of Philippine infrastructure development and have helped shape the country as we know it today. These agreements between the government and private firms leverage each partner’s expertise to effectively address specific public needs by appropriately distributing resources, risks, and benefits.

The partnerships allow the government to build big-ticket projects that can help millions of Filipinos while minimizing the costs due to the participation of private firms. For companies, PPPs are structured in such a way that the private sector gets a reasonable rate of return on its investment and allows them to contribute to national development.

Notable examples of successful partnerships between the government and private sector include the construction of power plants, waste management systems, irrigations, commerce buildings, and even local city halls. Yet, the industry most aided by PPPs is the transportation sector due to the necessity of developing efficient and modern infrastructure to address the country’s growing population, urbanization, and mobilization needs. Currently, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) handles more than 160 projects, programs, and initiatives — including 74 flagship infrastructure projects of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s administration.

Among the most renowned PPP projects overseen by the DoTr presently operational is the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX). Developed in partnership with MWM Terminals, a consortium of Megawide Construction Corp. and WM Property Management, Inc., the state-of-the-art terminal, built at a cost of P2.5 billion, has been serving Filipinos since 2019.

PITX boasts several features such as passenger terminal buildings, arrival and departure bays, public information systems, ticketing and baggage handling facilities, and park-ride facilities to give commuters from Southern Luzon to Metro Manila and vice-versa a better experience. Recently, the terminal reached a remarkable milestone of 146 million overall foot traffic since it began operations and is expected to breach the 150-million mark within the year.

Another noteworthy DoTr project constructed with the help of private partnerships is the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3). Completed in the year 2000, the rapid transit line was developed and is currently operated by Metro Rail Transit Corp. Limited with an estimated project cost during approval of P32.75 billion.

Connecting North Avenue and the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue in Quezon City to Taft Avenue in Pasay City, the 13-station and 17-kilometer (km) railway has significantly reduced travel time for commuters and eased traffic congestion for car owners. MRT-3 has a daily ridership of nearly 360,000 passengers and saw almost 130 million passengers in 2023.

More recently, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport finally gets its long-overdue rehabilitation program through a PPP between the DoTr, Manila International Airport Authority, and New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), a consortium that includes San Miguel Corp. (SMC) and Incheon International Airport Corp. of South Korea.

The modernization program, with an estimated budget cost of P170 billion, hopes to increase the airport’s capacity from 35 million passengers to 62 million passengers and an uptick in air traffic movement from 40 movements per hour to 48, as well as improve service quality. Planned improvements for the airport in the next few years include functional escalators and toilets, stable power and water, improved air-conditioning, runway improvements, increased terminal capacity, improved commercial spaces, and better traffic flow.

Building on the success of these operational projects, the ongoing construction of the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) further showcases the potential of PPPs to help develop the country. The DoTr’s ambitious project, in collaboration with SMC’s MRT 7, Inc., aims to divert northern provincial bus operations to San Jose Del Monte, thereby decongesting EDSA.

The 23-km elevated railway line will have 14 stations from San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan to MRT-3 North Avenue in Quezon City, while a 22-km asphalt road will also be built from Bocaue Interchange of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) to the intermodal terminal in Tala. The P77-billion project currently has an overall construction progress of 71.32% as of June 2024 and a 16.76% right-of-way progress as of May 2024.

The recently opened five stations of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) is another example of a DoTr project completed with the help of private companies. Developed by the Light Rail Manila Corp. on a Build-Transfer-and-Operate contractual agreement, LRT-1 now runs from FPJ Station (formerly Roosevelt) in Quezon City to Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque thanks to the first phase of the project. With plans to further extend the railway to what would be the Niog Station in Bacoor, Cavite, the whole stretch of the integrated LRT-1 will have a total length of approximately 32.4 kilometers once construction of the nearly P65-billion project is completed. Latest figures show that the LRT-1 transports around 320,000 passengers daily.

In addition to these developments, the New Manila International Airport, also known as the Bulacan International Airport, highlights the continued expansion of the country’s transportation infrastructure through PPPs. The nearly P740-billion project, a collaboration between the DoTr and San Miguel Aerocity, Inc., involves the construction, operation, and maintenance of a new modern airport in Bulacan with a design capacity of up to 100 million passengers per year, consisting of four runways and all aviation-related facilities.

Data on the ongoing land development works for the airport show significant progress, with a total completion rate of 84.61%. Site clearance has been fully completed at 100%, while landfilling is at 77.49%. Ground improvement and right-of-way works are nearing completion, with a progress rate of 94.27% and 99.47% respectively. Finally, the right-of-way for the airport toll road stands at 29.35%.

Aside from these ongoing projects, several key transport developments are lined up to improve the country’s transportation system after Mr. Marcos witnessed the signing of agreements and commitments for the New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP), Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (Cebu BRT), modernization of Bohol-Panglao International Airport, as well as the Agreements for the New Dumaguete and New Siargao airports.

The NCICP aims to decongest the existing Cebu Base Port, improve cargo handling capacity, and reduce logistics costs. In addition, the Cebu BRT is expected to handle 116,000 passengers during partial operations start and over 160,000 passengers once fully operational. The anticipated improvements in the modernization of Bohol-Panglao International Airport include installing modern aviation equipment, expanding the passenger terminal building and other airport facilities. Regional gateways New Dumaguete and New Siargao airports are seen to boost tourism in the area.

Of the five transport projects, only two so far have been awarded to private firms. The International Finance Corp. (IFC) of the World Bank Group was tabbed by the DoTr as the Transaction Advisor in structuring and bidding out the bus supply and operations and maintenance of the Cebu BRT. Similarly, Aboitiz InfraCapital signed a concession deal with the transport department for the transfer of operations and management of the Bohol-Panglao International Airport.

Projects made by the government in partnership with the private sector have and will continue to benefit Filipinos, especially in the transport sector. By combining the strengths of both the government and corporations, these initiatives improve the country’s transportation systems and enhance the quality of life for millions of Filipinos.

With continued collaboration and innovation, the successful implementation of these PPPs promises to pave the way for a more connected, efficient, and sustainable future for the nation. — Jomarc Angelo M. Corpuz

As the agency tasked to provide safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation to every Filipino, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) has implemented several active transport programs that aim to give individuals better mass transit experiences, ease traffic congestion, and promote sustainability through different initiatives.

Active transport is defined as the mobility of people or goods powered by human activity, such as walking or cycling, rather than a motor. Consultancy firm Palafox Associates describes the current active transport situation of the Philippines as “riddled with challenges.” The lack of dedicated bike lanes, safe pedestrian crossings, and supportive facilities such as bike parking and showers significantly discourages active commuting showcasing the need for adequate active transport infrastructure. Pedestrians and cyclists in the Philippines are also plagued with unsafe conditions like poorly maintained sidewalks, uneven pavements, road hazards, and inadequate lighting.

Transport corridors are also car-centric and predominantly designed with private vehicles in mind, often overlooking the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, the absence of shade and weather protection makes active transport uncomfortable and potentially hazardous in the Philippine climate.

One of the most notable active transport programs by the DoTr is the construction of Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) stops all over Metro Manila. Recently, the transport agency inaugurated two such stops along Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila built with essential features for today’s commuters including a map of the bike routes in the city, charging stations powered by solar panels, CCTVs, and lockers.

Bike lanes all over the Philippines have also been created by the DoTr to promote healthier lifestyles, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the overall quality of life in various areas. By integrating bike lanes into urban planning, local governments aim to ease traffic congestion, support sustainable mobility, and foster a culture of active living.

In Cebu, the transport agency opened last year a total of 67.19 kilometers (both ways) of Class 1, 2, and 3 bike lanes along selected roads in the cities of Cebu, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue, and the municipalities of Cordova and Talisay. End-of-trip cycling facilities such as bicycle racks, and repair stations are planned to be built along those lanes.

Millions of Davaoeños have also enjoyed a safer, more comfortable, and more convenient way to travel after the DoTr inaugurated a total of 47.7949 kilometers (both ways) of Class 1, 2, and 3 bike lanes along selected roads in the cities of Davao and Tagum, as well as the maintenance and upgrading of a total of 60.24173 kilometers (both ways) of bike lane in May last year. Additionally, 30 bike racks were installed in separate locations across the two cities.

The walled city of Intramuros also received an expansion, upgrade, and maintenance of its bike lanes after the DoTr, in partnership with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and Intramuros Administration (IA), inaugurated its Expansion of Active and Public Transport Infrastructure.The project includes the development of Class 1, 2, and 3 bike lanes spanning 9.35 kilometers, enhancements to pedestrian walkways with PWD-accessible ramps, the creation of open spaces, and the construction of four public transport stops.

Quezon City is also a beneficiary of the DoTr’s active transport project. Recently, the agency opened 21 sets of short-term end-of-trip cycling facilities in UP Diliman and an additional 15 sets of short-term end-of-trip cycling facilities in QC City Hall. Each of these sets is composed of five bicycle racks, a bicycle shed, and a bicycle repair station.

Two stand-alone end-of-trip cycling facilities were also built in Marikina City as part of the transport agency’s project. The said facilities could accommodate 70 bicycles and have fully equipped comfort rooms and a bicycle repair and maintenance station. In addition, the DoTr and the local government of Marikina City also broke ground on an eight-kilometer bike lane that would connect to the city’s existing bike lanes.

Also a part of their active transport initiatives, the DoTr is crafting the Active Transport Strategic Master Plan (ATSMP) in partnership with Palafox Associates as a consultancy firm. The master plan not only aims to ease the heavy traffic on Philippine roads but also the long and winding queues of commuters at jeepney terminals, bus stations, and railway transit stations.

Other objectives of the ATSMP are promoting sustainable urban mobility, boosting economic opportunities, and supporting local government units in advancing active transport solutions and projects in their localities.

Pilot areas of the study have already been identified by Palafox making sure that the regions are in coherent geographic clusters when it comes to mobility. These areas include the National Capital Region, Puerta Princesa, Iloilo City, Zamboanga City, and Mati City in Davao Oriental.

The public is encouraged by the transport agency to participate in field surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews regarding active transport to help craft better standards and policies and aid in creating a comfortable, accessible, and safe active transport system in the country.

The DoTr’s initiative to adopt and advance active transport in the country is a step toward a more inclusive, sustainable, and efficient transport system in the Philippines. With continued collaboration among government agencies, local governments, private sectors, and the public, the vision of a well-connected and active transport system is within reach—making mobility not just a necessity but a catalyst for nationwide progress. — Jomarc Angelo M. Corpuz

The rapid pace of technological changes happening in businesses, industries, and societies comes with new pressures and additional concerns. Given the massive and vast nature of the digital space, risks to businesses might be hiding in plain sight and so might be difficult to identify. When overlooked, these digital risks can cause significant damage and impact.

Recent reports from some think tanks have identified potential risks that might arise from the digital space. Within the complex technological landscape, understanding these potential headwinds can come handy for businesses who are navigating their place and relevance in a more digitally influenced world.

The AI mainstream

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more of a reality last year as it generates new applications for enhancing security, improving banking and financing, business management, and much more. In the business setting, AI offers opportunities for organizations to take advantage of the technology’s ability to analyze data, make smart predictions, and mitigate potential risks.

“Enthusiasm around the technology’s potential to drive a new wave of growth has helped tech stocks to build again post-COVID, and analysts expect this upward trend to continue,” World Economic Forum (WEF) said in a report. “The proliferation of AI means there will be chances to take big swings; even if they don’t work out, the learning experiences for businesses will be incredible.”

While AI is on the side of mainstream with fewer drawbacks, that doesn’t mean no issues are lurking behind. According to WEF’s Global Risk Report, the adverse outcomes of AI technologies are projected to rise, with potential disruptions looming within the next decade. Key concerns include generative AI (GenAI) producing misleading or false content and its relationship to social polarization.

Likewise, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) shared that Asia-Pacific economies are among those affected by the continued AI evolution. In its Regional Economic Outlook, it revealed significant shifts will occur in the region, with AI influencing 50% of jobs in advanced economies and 25% in developing ones.

Because of this, AI is seen to increase inequality within countries in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in the job market. The report notes of majority of the workers in services, sales, and clerical support are at risk of losing their jobs. In contrast, those in managerial, professional, and technical jobs are more likely to reap benefits brought by AI advancements.

Misinformation and disinformation

Another risk identified for this year is misinformation and disinformation, through which platforms for information might be geared to work against the truth.

The House of Commons Library defined misinformation as the “unintentional creation and spreading of such information,” while disinformation is the “deliberate creation and spreading of false and/or manipulated content.” Either way, both pose a risk for digital consumers, as misinformation and disinformation can accelerate given the fast spread of information through digital channels.

In the WEF’s Global Risk Report, misinformation and disinformation emerged as one of the biggest short-term risks for two consecutive years. Looking ahead to 2025, these challenges are more likely to significantly impact the academic sector, along with the private sector, government, civil society, and international organizations.

Partly fueling the rise of misinformation and disinformation is generative AI (GenAI) technology. While it simplifies content creation, it also produces significant inaccuracies, leading to false and misleading content. As a result, it resorts to a lot of AI-inaccuracies and human errors, making it increasingly difficult to access reliable information digitally.

“The advent of new technologies and the increase in user-generated content platforms is leading to a corresponding rise in the volume of content online. Flows of misinformation and disinformation from those creating it are becoming more challenging to detect and remove in an increasingly fragmented media landscape,” the report noted.

“The upshot is that it is becoming increasingly hard to know where to turn for true information. Both political and societal polarization skew narratives and distort facts, contributing to low and declining trust in media.”

Another contributing factor are algorithms and machine learning models, which can serve as a gateway for cyberattacks. These systems generate automated algorithms or exhibit algorithmic biases that negatively impact decision-making. It often lacks transparency, fairness, and accuracy, especially when critical decisions are made. In the worst-case scenario, algorithmic biases can deepen societal divisions divide and foster biases against political identities.

“Algorithmic bias can both be influenced by misinformation and disinformation and can be a cause of it. The risks of algorithmic bias are heightened when the data used for training an AI model is itself a biased sample.”

Censorship and surveillance

Censorship is when access to online content is limited or blocked. This can be advantageous to protect national security, adhere to policies, shield users from harmful and illegal content, or maintain social order. On the flip side, it can also lead to a lack of access to information, transparency, and concerns on free speech.

WEF’s report stated that misinformation and disinformation are inextricably linked with censorship, with the danger lying in potential responses to misinformation.

“The proliferation of misinformation and disinformation may be leveraged to strengthen digital authoritarianism and the use of technology to control citizens. Governments themselves will be increasingly in a position to determine what is true, potentially allowing political parties to monopolize the public discourse and suppress dissenting voices, including journalists and opponents,” the report said.

Regarding surveillance, emerging technologies are becoming central to the public sector. The 2025 Global Risk Report highlights that data analytics, AI, and other digital platforms are increasingly integral to government services and operations. These technologies provide greater access to data and information, while enabling monitoring of citizens’ activities. They are utilized for various purposes, including tax management, environmental protection, and voter registration, among others.

“Governments now have unprecedented access to data on citizens — and technology companies often have even better access than the governments themselves do. As the computing power available to governments and technology companies continues to rise, it becomes easier for both entities to monitor citizens’ activities,” the report said.

The report also emphasized significant variation in how governments manage the data they can access. Implementing regulations is crucial because it promotes better personal data protection and enforces stricter guidelines on how businesses and governments can utilize such information.

Explosive cybersecurity demand

Another notable risk for this year is cyber-attacks. With the increasing complexities of the cyberspace come the challenges of possible rippling effects that might be damaging to the economy and that live in it.

The WEF’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 highlighted factors responsible behind cybersecurity complexity: geopolitical tensions, cybercrime sophistication, supply chain interdependencies, regulatory requirements, emerging technologies, and cyber skills gap. All of these challenges are making it extremely difficult for leaders to manage cybersecurity while also preparing for future potential risks to come.
The report revealed that 72% of organizations have experienced an increase in cyber risks; while 47% expressed major concerns about security threats posed by GenAI, and only 4% believe they have the necessary skills and personnel to safeguard their systems.

According to the WEF Annual Meeting 2025 report, 42% of organizations fell victim to cybercrime attacks in 2024, including phishing, vishing, deep fake, and other social engineering attacks.

Cybercrimes are constantly surging and evolving, and they have become increasingly profitable as cybercriminals have learned to maximize their gains while minimizing risks. This shift has given a rise to a new trend known as cybercrime-as-a-service, according to the report.

“This is the trend that we’re seeing — professionalization of crime. They require good technology; they require good software engineers. So, the talent that they are accessing are basically the same talents that all of us are searching for, except that they pay better; and that’s where we face a significant challenge. How do we ensure that the talents go to the good guys and not to the dark side?” Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary John Ivan Uy said.

To turn cyberspaces into a safer space, collaborative effort is necessary to stop cybercriminals in their tracks.

“Cybercriminals collaborate; and so must those who seek to stop them, including governments, the private sector, e-wallet providers, digital banking, and citizens,” Mr. Uy said.

It is also important to equip industry leaders with knowledge, helping them make informed and strategic decisions regarding cybersecurity risks their organization faces.

“Leaders must view cybersecurity as a strategic investment, ensuring resilience against new threats and recognizing it as a collective responsibility across all organizations. Strong leadership is essential, focusing not just on technical aspects but also on the economic implications of cyber risks. A unified approach between business and cyber leaders is critical to managing the growing complexity of cybersecurity,” the WEF Annual Meeting report read. — Angela Kiara S. Brillantes