DOT Boosts ASEAN Hosting
The Philippines is preparing for the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit. The Department of Tourism plays a major role in these national preparations.
The tourism department has partnered with transportation officials to launch free jeepney rides. Thirty modern jeepneys now service select routes in Metro Manila.
Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay serves as the Vice Chair for Operations of the National Organizing Committee. She explained the main goal of this transportation project.
“Ang utos po ng ating Pangulo, ay ang chairship po ng Pilipinas hindi lamang dapat nakikita o napapanood sa mga balita. Dapat maramdaman ng bawat Pilipino ang konkretong benepisyong hatid nito. That is why we continue working closely with our partner government agencies to develop initiatives that showcase the best of the Philippines while creating meaningful experiences for our visitors, delegates, and stakeholders,” Secretary Angara-Mathay said.
The free rides started on November 5. They run for ten days until November 14, 2026.
Commuters can use two major routes. One route runs from SM Fairview to Buendia. The other route runs from Sucat to Baclaran.
Each route utilizes a fleet of 15 vehicles. The jeepneys operate daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The vehicles feature vibrant wraps of iconic Philippine destinations and festivals. This design promotes the country’s tourism assets while serving the public.
The program helps average commuters. It also protects the daily income of local transport drivers.
DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark Steven C. Pastor spoke on behalf of DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon. He praised the inter-agency collaboration.
“This is a reflection of our commitment that we are collaborating with different agencies, in particular the DOT, for spearheading this initiative. Kami po sa Kagawaran ay buong-buo ang suporta sa ating DOT dahil we are not just showcasing our country. We are showcasing our culture, and our tourism,” Usec. Pastor said.
World leaders will arrive in the country from November 16 to 18. They will attend the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings to discuss key regional policies.
The tourism department also focused on upgrading official summit venues. The agency partnered with MinebeaMitsumi to install a smart lighting system at the Philippine International Convention Center.
The new system is known as SALIOT. It introduces modern operational agility and precision lighting to the historic venue.
The advanced technology illuminates four major Filipino masterpieces inside the center. These artworks include pieces by national artists and masters.
Secretary Angara-Mathay highlighted the importance of this venue upgrade.
“Seeing the PICC renovated to its full glory, paired with MinebeaMitsumi’s SALIOT system, bridges our rich architectural heritage with modern operational efficiency,” stated DOT Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay.
“It allows us to cast the perfect light onto our finest National Cultural Treasures, ensuring our historic convention center delivers a visually stunning, world-class experience for international delegates as we host the 49th ASEAN Summit,” she added.
Yoshihisa Kainuma serves as the Representative Director, Chairman and CEO of MinebeaMitsumi. He discussed the value of the new technology.
“By equipping the PICC with SALIOT, we are providing a smart, safe, and highly sustainable infrastructure solution that respects, protects, and accentuates its magnificent, newly restored brutalist design and the irreplaceable art masterpieces within it,” said Yoshihisa Kainuma.
“Our partnership with the Department of Tourism ensures that the nation’s premier venue reflects the peak of global technological innovation,” he added.
The smartphone-controlled lighting allows staff to change angles and colors instantly via Bluetooth Mesh technology. This innovation reduces room turnover times from hours to minutes. It also improves workplace safety by eliminating the need for heavy scaffolding near priceless artworks.
Photos from the Department of Tourism.