Davao City — For daily commuters long used to cramped jeepneys and unpredictable rides, relief is finally on the horizon. Ten (10) brand-new, low-floor city buses are set to arrive in Davao by September 2025, marking the first wave of a transport transformation that promises to change the way Dabawenyos move around their city.
These Yutong ZK6126HG buses, each costing around ₱10 million, were procured under the Davao City Interim Bus Service (DIBS). Designed with commuter comfort in mind, they come fully air-conditioned with spacious interiors, accessibility features for persons with disabilities, and even front-mounted bicycle holders for eco-conscious riders. With a 93-passenger capacity—31 seated and 62 standing—each bus is built to move more people safely and efficiently.
For many residents, the new buses symbolize more than just vehicles; they represent hope for a less stressful commute. “Kung ganito na sana noon pa, mas maaga akong nakakarating sa trabaho nang hindi pawis at pagod,” said a local office worker who often endures long travel times across the city.
Funded through the Local Government of Davao’s ₱105.99 million Development Fund, ₱100 million went directly to the bus purchase, while the remainder supports the construction of a modern bus garage and operations center at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT). Once the units become operational by the fourth quarter, Dabawenyos will initially enjoy free rides—a gesture city officials say is meant to let people experience firsthand the benefits of a modernized system.
The buses are a bridge to an even bigger leap forward: the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project, or DavaoBus, a massive program supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This project will deploy over 1,000 new buses, including 18-meter articulated, electric-powered models capable of carrying more than 100 passengers each. By 2027–2028, Davao’s streets are expected to host the largest modern city bus fleet outside Metro Manila.
Some skeptics worry that the arrival of big buses might worsen traffic. But transport planners insist otherwise—pointing out that one high-capacity bus can replace multiple smaller vehicles on the road. “It’s about moving people, not cars,” said one transport expert. “The system will ease congestion by consolidating trips, cutting down emissions, and ensuring faster travel times.”
For Dabawenyos who often juggle work, school, and family responsibilities, the change can’t come soon enough. “Public transport affects everything—our jobs, our studies, even family time,” shared a university student. “If buses like these really make commuting easier, it’s a big win for us.”
From jeepney-clogged intersections to more organized, eco-friendly mobility, Davao City is charting a new course in urban transport. The ten interim buses may be just the beginning, but they carry with them the promise of a future where commuting is no longer a daily burden but a shared benefit for an entire city.