THE Department of Transportation (DoTr) is embarking on a bus-based public transportation system for Davao that is separate yet complementary to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

According to the DoTr, the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP) is an expanded version of the highly successful EDSA Busway, a bus rapid transit system separated from normal road traffic in most of its stretch by concrete barriers on the innermost lane.

The DPTMP, to be known as DavaoBus, is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and will connect key areas in Davao City, Panabo City and Davao del Norte.

Like the EDSA Busway, the DavaoBus also involves establishing dedicated bus lanes, depots and terminals over a route network spanning 672 kilometers and involving nine routes.

The DoTr said the DavaoBus project will utilize modern buses that have complied with the PUVMP.

"The project will create an intelligent transport system using environment-friendly buses and modernized PUVs with standardized operations and reliable bus schedules," it said in a statement issued over the weekend.

The DoTr made the announcement to clarify reports that Davao City would not be affected by the implementation of the PUVMP.

Currently, two modernization programs are in effect in Davao: the DPTMP within Davao City and the PUVMP outside the city.

Operations of jeepneys within the city will continue under provisional authority until the DPTMP is operational.

For areas outside Davao City, the PUVMP is being implemented, covering around 86 percent of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) in the region.

Based on the latest available data, approximately 100 units of PUJs failed to consolidate into cooperatives as mandated by the PUVMP.

More routes will be opened once the Local Public Transport Route Plan has been approved.