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Over the next decade, the government of the Philippines is set to spend US$164.7 billion on infrastructure as part of the country’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ programme, initiated by President Duterte.
To realise their ambitious goals, the government requested the Asia Development Bank (ADB) to help the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to conduct pre-investment activities which will in turn help the government expedite the review and approval process and shorten start-up periods for priority infrastructure projects.
After a rigorous process, Arup was selected for two of the three major packages under the Infrastructure Preparation and Innovation Facility (IPIF) Output 1 – Roads and Bridges and Output 3 – Transportation.
Project Summary
US$164.7billion infrastructure upgrade plan
9projectsunder IPIF Output 1
13projectsunder IPIF Output 3
Road and bridge projects
Under Output 1, we are helping the DPWH prepare feasibility studies, develop masterplans and strategies for the implementation of new inter-island bridges, tunnels and highways.
Our initial task involved an overview project to set priorities of the various inter island and highway connections and identify those more beneficial to study further. Out of this came eight projects covering pre-feasibility, feasibility and reference designs for large scale bridge, viaduct and highway crossings. We also undertook strategic studies for the Central Visayas to improve transport as well as a comprehensive master plan for the improvement and integration of a new and existing road network around Laguna Bay.
In addition to the initial assessments, we were also tasked to provide training and support to DPWH to build capacity and move towards implementation of those agreed final infrastructure projects.
Rail, public transport, port and airport projects
Under Output 3, we are supporting the DOTr in a strategic transport planning review that covers rail, aviation, sustainable transport and maritime projects and will recommend the priority of projects as well as assisting in the preparation of high priority projects.
The package involves assessments of 13 projects including the 102km Tagum-Davao-Digos segment of the Mindanao railway project and the Davao High Priority Bus System.
Another major project is the North-South Commuter Railway which will provide the commuter, commuter express and airport express services, linking the north and south of Metro Manila. In addition to the review of the civil design, we are also taking the ‘shadow operator’ role to look at the deliverables from the perspective of an operations and maintenance franchise and assist the procurement process to contract award for both the civil works and the operation and maintenance.
A better life with better connectivity
Drawing upon our global expertise, Arup has developed a set of solutions and schemes and has successfully advised and supported the Philippines government towards starting some of their flagship projects under the ‘Build Build Build’ initiative.
These projects will help shape a better-connected Philippines, dramatically improving access to major cities and driving sustainable development and inclusive growth of the country.
