By Linjay Espina

Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) gathered key transport leaders, government officials, and industry partners during the 4th Transport Conference held last October 15 at Okada Manila. With the theme “Co-Pilots: Navigating a Safer, Smarter & More Sustainable Future in Transportation,” the event focused on the importance of shared responsibility in improving mobility and road safety across the country.

MPTC President and CEO Gilbert Santa Maria highlighted ongoing and future expressway projects that aim to support the growth of the logistics and public transport sectors. He emphasized that the success of transport modernization depends on strong partnerships between tollway operators, government agencies, and transport organizations.

The conference was attended by representatives from several national trucking, bus, jeepney, and UV Express organizations. Their presence reinforced the strong partnership between MPTC and the transport community, particularly in addressing evolving mobility challenges and aligning on shared goals for safety and operational efficiency.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Acting Secretary Atty. Giovanni Z. Lopez delivered the keynote message and expressed the government’s commitment to continue supporting modernization initiatives. He noted the importance of working closely with organizations like MPTC in introducing better digital systems, safety practices, and infrastructure improvements.

Panel discussions throughout the event focused on promoting responsible road behavior, improving driver education, adopting new transport technologies, and strengthening route connectivity across regions. These conversations highlighted that transportation progress must balance innovation with safety and community welfare.

In closing, Mr. Santa Maria emphasized that road safety is a shared responsibility and called on all stakeholders to continue working together in protecting the lives of motorists and communities along MPTC expressways.

The conference successfully reinforced collaboration toward a safer, smarter, and more sustainable mobility future.