Davao City has once again proven why it is widely regarded as a model of forward-looking local governance.
The 21st City Council has officially approved the creation of a ₱1.5-billion Trust Fund—sourced from the city’s General Fund—to finance the local government’s counterpart for the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP), including the flagship Davao Bus Project. The move signals the city’s unwavering commitment to modernizing its transport system despite delays and funding shortfalls from the national government.
The Trust Fund, which will be maintained under the Department of Budget and Management, ensures that Davao City is financially ready once the multi-billion–peso project—backed by a ₱54.89-billion loan from the Asian Development Bank—fully rolls out. The DPTMP aims to overhaul the city’s aging and fragmented jeepney system, replacing it with a 672-kilometer integrated bus network composed of 380 electric buses and 720 Euro-V diesel units.
But while the Department of Transportation (DOTr) requested ₱14–₱17 billion for 2026 to push the project forward, the proposed national budget for next year allocates only about ₱1.74–₱2 billion—barely a fraction of what is needed. With this gap, the city could have chosen to wait.
Instead, it stepped up.
As chair of the Committee on Finance, Council representatives emphasized that the Trust Fund guarantees readiness and allows the city to release its share promptly—even if national support continues to fall short. Assistant City Administrator and project manager Atty. Tristan Dwight Domingo also underscored that the ₱1.5-billion counterpart will be funded gradually through annual allocations, noting the city’s strong revenue performance of over ₱4 billion annually.
And while the national government and the DOTr continue to finalize their commitments, Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte has already taken decisive action. The city has begun procuring modern buses to immediately address the transport needs of nearly two million Dabawenyos—proof that Davao City will not wait to act on what it urgently needs.
This proactive local response stands in stark contrast to the slow-moving national support. At a time when many cities remain dependent on Manila for direction and budget releases, Davao City has chosen to lead—with action, resources, and a clear vision for a safer, more reliable, and modern public transport system.
The approval of the Trust Fund is more than just a fiscal measure—it is a declaration of resolve. It shows a local government that refuses to stall progress, that fills the gaps when national agencies fall short, and that remains firmly aligned with long-term development goals for its people.
With this move, Davao City signals one message loud and clear: while others wait, Davao delivers.