DAVAO CITY — The Davao City government is set to acquire 20 additional buses for its free ride program under the proposed Supplemental Budget No. 1, according to Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang. The move aims to expand the Davao City Interim Bus Service (DIBS), which has already served more than half a million passengers since its launch.
Funding and Procurement
Councilor Dayanghirang disclosed that approximately P200 million has been allocated for the purchase of 20 new bus units. This amount is part of the larger P1.2 billion Supplemental Budget No. 1, which has already passed its second reading. The councilor clarified that the specific details and bidding processes are still pending. He also noted that the budget includes provisions for digitalization efforts.
“It’s still up for bidding and needs to be specified further, but the general amount is P200 million, and the digitalization is already included in that,” Dayanghirang said during the Pulong-Pulong sa Dabawenyos held on May 26, 2026, at the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
Digital Platform for Route Monitoring
Alongside the bus procurement, a digital platform is being proposed to monitor buses plying the city’s streets. This system would allow commuters to check bus routes and real-time locations through their mobile phones, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Current Operations and Ridership
DIBS currently operates 10 buses, providing free rides to Dabawenyos during rush hours when commuting is challenging. As of April 1, 2026, the DC Bus service has recorded a total of 501,623 passengers. Many residents rely heavily on this free transportation, with some requesting additional routes to serve more areas.
The service was launched on December 5, 2025, to address the growing demand for reliable public transportation. It operates from Monday to Saturday during peak hours: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., covering 124 bus stops.
Route Details
- Southbound routes: Toril to Guillermo Torres or Sandawa, Toril to Roxas Avenue, Mintal to Sandawa, Mintal to Roxas, and Bangkal to Roxas.
- Northbound routes: Buhangin to Roxas and several Panacan routes via Angliongto and R. Castillo.
Each route completes up to three trips depending on traffic conditions. Each bus can carry up to 90 passengers, including 46 regular seats, two seats for persons with disabilities (PWDs), and standing room for 15 passengers. The buses are equipped with ramps for PWD access and bike racks for commuters bringing bicycles.
Comparison with National Love Bus
Meanwhile, the national government’s Love Bus has recorded a total ridership of 1.9 million since its launch in July 2025. The city government’s DC Bus continues to complement this service by focusing on local routes within Davao City.
