- City’s 10 new buses to start free operation by mid-November
DAVAO City’s long-awaited free bus service (DC Bus), designed to ease commuter congestion during peak hours, is set to be fully operational by mid-November 2025.
The initiative, part of the Interim Bus System, saw the arrival of the ten new 12-meter, low-floor modern bus units at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal on Tuesday, Oct. 14, where they will be initially parked.
In an interview on Tuesday, Oct. 15, Atty. Dwight Domingo, assistant city administrator for operations and Davao Bus System manager, said, “With the initiative of Mayor Sebastian Duterte, I’m happy to inform everyone that the 10 buses have already arrived. This will be operating, probably, in the middle of November, for free, in designated routes.”
Operational details and timeline
The free bus service will focus on peak hours, specifically from 6 a.m. to around 9:30 a.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Domingo explained that the two-week gap before the full launch will be used for essential preparations and training.
“We need to familiarize the system, what to monitor during emergencies, to ensure everything is safe before we launch. This is why I say that it will begin full operation by mid-November,” Domingo stated, adding that driver training with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is also scheduled.
The specific routes and pre-identified bus stops will be officially announced in the coming two weeks.
Capacity and infrastructure
Each modern unit has a capacity for up to 60 passengers (seating and standing), though the actual number will be limited to 50 passengers pending final approval from the LTFRB.
Crucially, the new buses feature designated areas for bicycle racks and wheelchairs for persons with disability (PWDs). They also include priority seating for the elderly, women with infants, pregnant women, and PWDs.
Domingo said the interim bus project will have three terminals in Calinan, Toril, and Bunawan. Six areas were also identified for bus depots and terminals. New depot additions will be located in Sasa and Buhangin.
The city is currently drafting a regulatory ordinance for the buses.
“We are also requesting the City Council to issue rules and regulations to make an ordinance so everyone is properly guided on how to use the buses. For example, should we require or allow eating inside the bus or not?” Domingo noted.
For those coming from public markets, he said, “Passengers coming from public markets will be allowed, but must be mindful of cleanliness. You have to ensure we do not cause odor, garbage, or spills. You have to be mindful. Cleanliness should apply everywhere,” Domingo advised.
The ordinance will also outline whether pets are allowed, potentially requiring proper containers or diapers.
Domingo stressed that while the 10 buses are an interim solution, the city’s long-term vision is the Davao Bus Project, which will require between 800 to 1,000 buses to operate city-wide.
