a. Prioritize asset preservation
While transport connectivity is of utmost importance, the upgrading of the quality and capacity of existing transport infrastructure will be prioritized before expanding the coverage of the networks. The latter will be based on a strategic plan that takes modal complementation into account. For rail transport, the quality of the existing railroad tracks and services must be upgraded.
In the allocation of resources, higher priority shall be given to asset preservation or maintenance and rehabilitation of the existing transport infrastructure network rather than new construction or development.
The "user-pays" principle shall be applied at the very least for the purpose of asset preservation. This principle may be invoked whenever pricing of the service is possible and potential users unwilling to pay for the service can be excluded. The same argument may be invoked for full investment-cost recovery. The focus shall be the upgrading of the quality and capacity of existing ports, roads, airports, and rail lines.
Additional funding for maintenance should be provided to heighten and effectively maintain existing infrastructure assets. The previous annual appropriation of PhP4 billion for road maintenance on top of the Road Fund should be reinstated. Budgetary allocation may be further augmented through the GAA. The government shall also enhance a "user-pays" culture in infrastructure management. As proposed under the previous Plan, RA 8794 ("An Act Imposing a Vehicle User's Charge on Owners of All Types of Motor Vehicles and for Other Purposes") may be amended to include a fuel levy or some other form of road user contribution in order to expand the Road Fund. For long-term sustainability, the stability of available and adequate maintenance funds shall be ensured. To ascertain the sustainability of local transport networks, an incentives-based reform agenda for LGUs shall be put in place, where applicable, to help LGUs improve their performance in transport infrastructure management and maintenance.
b. Provide access to major and strategic tourism destinations and production areas
Dependable transport access will be facilitated in coordination with LGUs to support major and strategic tourism destinations. National and local coordination will be fostered to provide the necessary transport infrastructure to link production and agricultural areas to major roads leading to markets and population centers.
c. Promote environmentally sustainable and people-oriented transport
The government will continue to promote an environmentally sustainable and people-oriented transport system. The shift from the use of fossil fuel to renewable energy sources to power vehicles shall be pursued. Non-motorized transport facilities such as sidewalks, footbridges, underground walkways, and bicycle ways will be provided to ensure safety of pedestrians and bicycle users. Transportation design and systems shall consider the frail, elderly and differently-abled persons, among others.