POD CAR. An artist rendition of the pod car, which is proposed to be established in Iloilo City. Mayor Jerry Treñas said on Thursday (April 20, 2023) that having more alternative modes of transportation will make Iloilo very walkable and liveable. (Photo courtesy of Futran Philippines Inc.)
ILOILO CITY – This city’s fast-paced development has enticed investors from the transportation sector to consider investing here.
Mayor Jerry Treñas, in an interview Thursday, said that Futran Philippines Inc ., the first company that produces pod cars in the country, has signified its interest to bring the German technology to Iloilo City.
Pod cars or personal rapid transit, is a mode of transportation featuring small low-capacity automated vehicles that operate on a network of specially built guideways.
“They are asking if we can sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU). With the MOU we can provide them with data like the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and other available plans so they can come up with feasibility if it is doable,” Treñas said.
During his meeting with the firm’s representatives on Tuesday, he was informed that they also introduced the German technology to the cities of Mandaue and Cebu.
The mayor said he is excited because pod cars can enter even side streets.
Another interested investor is First Balfour Inc, a subsidiary of the Lopez-led First Philippine Holdings Corporation (FPH).
The firm has signified its intention to develop a green electric-powered transport system to complement the City's Local Public Transport Route Plan.
“The more alternative mode of transportation will be available for the city, the better for us then it will make Iloilo very walkable and liveable,” Treñas said.
Representatives of the First Balfour presented their proposal in a meeting with the city mayor early this month.
“As envisioned by First Balfour, the integrated transportation project will call for the deployment of a fleet of electric buses and the development of a supporting infrastructure, potentially a bus rapid transit system,” the firm said in a press statement.
It is expected to help the city reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion, promote local tourism, create jobs, and improve the delivery of services, it added. (PNA)
