Sweden has deepened its partnership with the Philippines in modernizing public transportation, with Swedfund conducting studies to raise bus standards and cut carbon emissions while supporting flagship projects such as the EDSA Busway, the Embassy of Sweden in Manila said in a news release.
At the 2025 Transportation Forum, co-organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) and Team Sweden, Swedish officials and companies showcased innovations that align with the Philippine government’s push for sustainable mobility.
Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines Anna Ferry cited the Scandinavian country’s Vision Zero framework, which has halved road fatalities in Sweden since its adoption in 1997.
“All lives matter. The goal of Vision Zero is to have zero fatalities or seriously injured from road accidents. Vision Zero is not just a transport policy, it’s a shared responsibility across sectors. Road safety is embedded in health, urban development, education including behavioral change, and enforcement frameworks. That systemic approach is crucial for diminishing the staggering number of fatalities and injured,” Ambassador Ferry said.
She emphasized Sweden’s collaboration with the Philippine government through Swedfund.
Volvo Buses highlighted how bus rapid transit (BRT) systems can ease congestion while cutting accidents and emissions.
“Smart mass transportation systems are key to reducing emissions, noise, and accidents in urban areas,” said Mats Nilsson, Vice President of Volvo Buses Asia Pacific.
Engr. Chris Flores of Axis Communications demonstrated how artificial intelligence and video data can improve safety and operational efficiency in public transport systems.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) welcomed Sweden’s initiatives, which complement the Philippines’ National Transport Policy and Road Safety Action Plan.
Key projects include the EDSA BRT expansion, new rail systems such as the PNR South Long Haul and Mindanao Railway, and the acceleration of electric vehicle adoption under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA).
Senator JV Ejercito, speaking at the forum’s close, called for stronger European-Philippine collaboration on public transport systems.
Sweden has been a consistent partner in the Philippines’ shift to sustainable mobility, providing grants for BRT systems in Iloilo and Metro Manila, and contributing to railway and clean energy projects. V. Uy