A progressive youth organization has launched strong criticism against the Davao Bus Project (DBP), labeling the flagship transportation initiative as deceptive and detrimental to ordinary citizens during a recent public demonstration.
Protest Against Modernization
Anakbayan Southern Mindanao Region (SMR) organized a picket rally at Freedom Park on Monday, November 24, 2025, voicing strong opposition to the planned phaseout of traditional jeepneys in favor of modern buses. The group's chairperson, Fauzhea Guiani, declared the project would create significant hardship for Davao residents.
"Dakong hasol ug pabug-at sa katawhan! Mamahimong palas-anon sa mga drayber ug komyuter ang pag-implementar sa Davao Bus Project," Guiani stated, emphasizing that the implementation would burden both drivers and commuters alike.
Economic Concerns and Project Details
According to the youth leader, the transportation modernization initiative could impact more than 7,000 public utility vehicle drivers and potentially drive fare prices up to ₱35, threatening the livelihoods of thousands in the transport sector.
The project, which saw ten modern buses imported from China arrive last October for pre-implementation testing, has yet to begin its promised free ride services during peak hours that were anticipated by mid-November. Guiani characterized the trial operations as a "mind-conditioning" tactic designed to manipulate public opinion.
Each bus carries a price tag of ₱10 million—funds that the group argues should be allocated toward basic social services for Davao residents. Guiani particularly questioned the rationality of substantial government spending, especially the ₱54 billion loan from the Asian Development Bank, which she described as an unnecessary public burden.
Funding Challenges and Project Timeline
The Davao Bus Project faces significant financial hurdles, according to project officials. Atty. Dwight Domingo, assistant city administrator and DBP project manager, revealed that the 2026 funding allocation falls substantially short of requirements.
While the project sought between ₱14 billion to ₱17 billion, the budget proposal submitted to Congress contained less than ₱2 billion. Despite this financial gap, Domingo expressed optimism that Congress might approve additional funding as the project progresses.
The Department of Transportation confirms the ₱76-billion initiative remains on track for its targeted 2027 operational launch, despite delays caused by right-of-way acquisitions and post-pandemic adjustments. The comprehensive system promises to establish a 672-kilometer integrated bus network featuring five depots, three terminals, and 1,074 stops serviced by 380 electric and 720 Euro-V diesel buses.
Originally scheduled for partial implementation in late 2024 and full operations by 2025, the project timeline has been extended to 2027. The city government has not yet issued an official response to the allegations raised by Anakbayan during their recent protest action.
