The British Embassy Manila, in collaboration with the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), today announced a landmark partnership to implement the Philippines’ first government-led Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was officially signed, setting the stage for a transformative project aimed at creating a climate-resilient “Education City” with integrated sustainable transport.
Supported by the UK Green Cities, Infrastructure, and Energy Programme, this pioneering initiative will leverage British and Filipino expertise, including the renowned Crossrail International, to develop a comprehensive TOD masterplan. The ambitious project seeks to convert DepEd’s existing ‘Education City’ into a vibrant, sustainable hub that seamlessly combines modern education facilities with highly efficient public transport connectivity.
British Ambassador to the Philippines, Laure Beaufils, welcomed the significant partnership, reaffirming the UK’s steadfast commitment to sustainable urban development. “Today’s MOU marks an exciting milestone in the UK-Philippines partnership as we work together to create a masterplan for a vibrant transit-oriented ‘Education City’ development,” Ambassador Beaufils stated. She further emphasized, “The UK is proud to bring British expertise and innovation to pioneer a TOD where people can live, learn, work, and thrive — connected by efficient transport systems, designed with people at their heart, and guided by principles of sustainability and resilience.”
Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the profound importance of fostering accessible and sustainable learning environments. “This partnership ensures that our learners and educators will also directly benefit from a well-planned, green, and safe environment that ultimately contributes to the public education objectives,” Secretary Angara remarked during the signing ceremony.
Concurrently, Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon underscored the project’s alignment with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for digitised and integrated national transport systems. “This MOU strengthens the DOTr’s commitment to build transport infrastructures that ease the burden of our commuters, including our young learners. This partnership marks a significant step forward in realising a transport-oriented development that not only improves connectivity but also fosters sustainable communities,” Secretary Dizon affirmed.
Drawing inspiration from London’s iconic Elizabeth Line, DepEd’s “Education City” is envisioned to feature state-of-the-art accessible transport systems, modern training facilities, and dedicated teacher accommodation. The development will also incorporate innovative revenue-generating opportunities designed to provide sustainable funding for future classroom construction and the ongoing digitalisation of education.
