Davao Terminal Prepares for Holy Week Passenger Influx Despite Bus Trip Reductions
An official from the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (Dcott) is forecasting a significant increase in passenger numbers during the upcoming Holy Week, even as bus operators have cut back on trips. Aisa Usop, the manager of Dcott, highlighted that travelers are still expected to flock to the terminal for the Lenten season, driven by stable bus fares that have not seen recent hikes.
Bus Operations and Fare Stability
During the ISpeak media forum held on Thursday, March 27, 2026, Usop explained that bus fares remaining unchanged are a key factor attracting passengers. She noted that buses might extend their waiting times at the Bay Area to accommodate more travelers, with operators considering longer stops beyond the typical 30-minute departure window, even if vehicles are not at full capacity.
Dcott charges entry fees ranging from P75 to P200 per bus, depending on their capacity. However, bus trips at the terminal have decreased to approximately 500 from the usual 700 to 800, as operators aim to manage rising costs. This reduction is primarily due to escalating fuel prices and the lack of approval for fare increases, putting financial pressure on transport services.
Regulatory and Safety Measures
To address operational challenges, Dcott has requested the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Davao Region (LTFRB-Davao) to deploy personnel at the terminal. This move is intended to issue special permits for buses operating outside their standard routes, ensuring smoother logistics during the peak travel period.
Safety remains a top priority, with inspections conducted by the Land Transportation Office, Highway Patrol Group, and City Transport and Traffic Management Office. These checks enforce compliance with the Blowbagets checklist, which covers essential components such as battery, lights, oil, water, brake, air (tires), gas, engine, tire/tools, and self-maintenance.
Enhanced Security and Infrastructure
For security purposes, Dcott has coordinated with Task Force Davao, the Davao City Police Office, and the Public Safety and Security Office to boost police visibility at the terminal. All 32 CCTV cameras are operational, and two baggage X-ray machines along with walk-through scanners have been installed to manage the anticipated passenger influx effectively.
Usop emphasized that these measures are crucial to handling the expected surge, ensuring a safe and efficient travel experience for all commuters during the busy Holy Week period.
