Transportation ministers of countries belonging to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) have agreed to adopt technological advances and public-private partnership initiatives to hasten the development of a commuter-friendly transportation system in the region.
In their joint statement released last week, leaders across the region have formalized their commitment to developing a regional transport sector that supports the growth of each nation’s economy.
Transportation secretary Joseph Emilio A. Abaya chaired this year’s APEC Transportation Ministerial meeting held in Cebu.
Advancing inclusive mobility means addressing the transportation requirements of all, especially those in vulnerable sectors of our society–the persons with disability, women, children, and the elderly. “Improving mobility translates to increased productivity which helps accelerate economic progress. Inclusive mobility would mean that everyone’s needs are incorporated in the transport plans, programs, activities, projects of all economies throughout the region,” he continued. “Today, we’ll be discussing how we can make sure that transportation systems are responsive to these needs.”
Abaya said that ministers also discussed the need to develop sustainable transportation systems that would support the continuous flow of passengers and goods.