The Yanson Group of Bus Companies (YGBC) is set to significantly enhance supply chain reliability for Cebu-based traders and logistics firms. The transport giant has announced plans to expand and upgrade its Mindanao operations throughout 2026, a move designed to reinforce the critical intercity mobility that moves goods from Mindanao's production centers to markets in Cebu and the wider Visayas region.
Strategic Focus on Key Trade Corridors
For the coming year, the group's strategy will center on three core areas: strengthening intercity connectivity, improving the reliability of its fleet, and bolstering the vital trade corridors that link Mindanao's agricultural and industrial hubs with urban consumption and distribution points. Leo Rey Yanson, Group Chairman and President, emphasized the foundational role of transport, stating, "Efficient movement of people and goods is the backbone of regional development."
He noted that investments are being channeled into regions experiencing increased economic activity and population growth. Yanson highlighted that public transport remains essential for maintaining economic momentum outside of Metro Manila.
Continuity in Leadership and Network Expansion
The commitment to growth is underscored by recent leadership confirmations across key subsidiaries. At Mindanao Star Bus Transit Inc., shareholders re-elected Leo Rey Yanson as Chairman and President, ensuring leadership continuity as the company maintains and expands services in Central Mindanao. This operator is crucial for the Soccsargen region, an economy powered by agriculture, food processing, and the nation's largest tuna industry—all key suppliers to Cebu's wholesale and export markets.
The company's board, including Olivia Yanson, Ginnette Dumancas, Charles Dumancas, Arvin John Villaruel, and Rey Ardo, was also retained. Similarly, Bachelor Express Inc. re-elected its board and reappointed Yanson as President and CEO. Bachelor Express runs one of Mindanao's most extensive intercity networks, connecting major centers like Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, Davao, Surigao, Malaybalay, Valencia, and Tagum. These routes are lifelines for daily commerce and labor mobility, feeding directly into regional supply chains.
Prioritizing Scalable Growth in 2026
Yanson outlined that the group's 2026 plan will prioritize selective capacity additions, route optimization, and operational upgrades. The goal is to meet rising passenger demand while managing cost pressures, with a clear emphasis on scalable growth over rapid fleet expansion. This measured approach aims to build sustainable infrastructure for the long term.
Headquartered in Bacolod City, the Yanson Group stands as one of Southeast Asia's largest land transport operators, employing over 18,000 workers across the Philippines. As regional economies contribute a larger share to national growth, the group is strategically positioning its Mindanao operations to be a key pillar supporting Cebu's evolving role as a premier regional trade and logistics hub.
