The Auto Body Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (ABMAP), in coordination with the Philippine Parts Makers Association (PPMA), recently engaged in a strategic meeting with Department of Transportation Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque to express unified support for the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).
Held at the DTI Secretary’s office, the meeting underscored the importance of close collaboration between government agencies and local manufacturing stakeholders to accelerate the modernization of the country’s public transport system.
Present during the meeting were DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, DOTR Secretary Vince Dizon, Assistant Secretaries Dioscoro “Jojo” Reyes and Michelle “Mich” De Vera, Chief of Staff Allan Yap, and PMO staff member Zion Yuson. The private sector was represented by PPMA President Ferdinand Raquelsantos, ABMAP President Bimbo Mills, ABMAP officer Rommel Juan, PPMA officer Allen Rufo, and ABMAP Executive Director Edgar Manuel.
ABMAP emphasized the readiness of the local body manufacturing sector to contribute significantly to the PTMP by building high-quality, locally produced modern public utility vehicles (PUVs). The group also presented key recommendations to address implementation bottlenecks, including improved access to financing, streamlined regulatory procedures, and the adoption of consistent design and technical standards.
“ABMAP is committed to supporting the government’s modernization agenda. With proper support, our members can manufacture safe, efficient, and proudly Filipino-made modern PUVs,” said ABMAP President Bimbo Mills. “We commend Secretaries Dizon and Roque for their constructive engagement and shared vision for a modern, inclusive transport system.”
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to sustained collaboration and partnership, ensuring that the PTMP delivers lasting benefits to commuters and the broader transportation industry.
