01/03/2026
The Municipal Planning and Development Office (MPDO) initiated a comprehensive capacity development activity for the finalization of the Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP) through the technical assistance of Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Region X. The three-day activity, held on February 18–20, 2026, strengthened the technical competence and institutional readiness of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Kolambugan in undertaking evidence-based and policy-compliant public transport planning.
Municipal Mayor, Hon. Lorenzo V. Mañigos emphasized that public transportation remains one of the most vital pillars of community development. He underscored that an efficient and reliable transport system has the power to transform communities by stimulating economic growth, enabling trade, facilitating access to markets and essential services, and influencing land use and long-term development patterns. He further highlighted that sustainable transport systems are integral to improving the quality of life of the people.
EnP Arlet E. Legaspi, MPA, the Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator, presented the rationale of the activity, explaining that the formulation of Kolambugan’s LPTRP is a direct response to Joint Memorandum Circular No. 001 s. 2017 issued by the Department of Transportation and the Department of the Interior and Local Government. The Joint Memorandum Circular mandates all LGUs to take the lead role in planning, rationalizing, and managing public transport routes within their respective jurisdictions. This directive institutionalizes local autonomy in transport planning while ensuring alignment with national policies and standards.
Hon. Jimmy T. Bacalso, Chairperson of the Committee on Transportation, likewise conveyed his full support for the initiative, affirming the Sangguniang Bayan’s commitment to policies and programs that advance safe, efficient, and accessible transport services for the municipality.
The technical sessions were facilitated by the following representatives from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Region X:
Shaliha B. Madid, Planning Officer III
Ayesha D. Racman, Technical Support Assistant
Roxanne D. Tilap, Technical Support Assistant
Through the formulation of the LPTRP, Kolambugan positions itself in alignment with the Public Transport Modernization Program, ensuring that local transport operations adhere to national standards on safety, environmental sustainability, operational efficiency, and commuter welfare. This initiative marks a significant step toward establishing a modernized, responsive, and future-ready public transportation system that will sustainably serve the needs of the community. 🌍✨
