Vallacar Transit Inc. (VTI), the country's largest public transport operator and the company behind the iconic Ceres Bus Liner, has announced a major acceleration of its company-wide modernization program for 2026. The announcement was made during its annual stockholders' meeting held on December 6, 2025.
Building a Future-Ready Transport System
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Leo Rey Yanson outlined the firm's ambitious strategy to build a "future-ready transport system." This push is designed to strengthen operations and significantly enhance the commuter experience across its extensive network in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The decision follows a year of solid operational gains in 2025, which the company attributes to sustained passenger volumes and the ongoing rollout of service upgrades. The 2026 strategy will prioritize several key areas:
- Fleet renewal to introduce more modern and efficient buses.
- Digital integration with new tools to streamline operations and improve customer service.
- Service quality enhancements across all touchpoints.
- Expansion of inter-island routes to bolster nationwide connectivity.
"As we move into 2026, we are accelerating modernization across our entire network," stated Leo Rey Yanson. "We are building a future-ready transport system that represents the best of Filipino service."
Supreme Court Provides Clarity on Legal Matter
The modernization announcement coincided with the board informing stockholders of a significant legal development. The board reported on a recent Supreme Court En Banc ruling concerning former director Ricardo V. Yanson Jr.
The high court declared Ricardo Jr. a fugitive from justice in a pending grave coercion case. The ruling stated that he had evaded trial by refusing to appear before the Regional Trial Court and, as a consequence, could not seek judicial relief. All his related petitions were denied.
"We welcome the clarity provided by the Supreme Court," said Leo Rey Yanson. He added that the decision underscores the principle that "no one is above the law" and that courts cannot be used "as shields by those who refuse to face legitimate legal processes."
Treasurer and Corporate Secretary Olivia V. Yanson said the ruling affirms the company's long-standing commitment to order and accountability. "VTI has endured many challenges, but we remain united and committed to our employees, our partners, and the millions of commuters we serve," she affirmed.
New Board and a Forward-Looking Agenda
During the annual meeting, stockholders elected the board of directors for the 2026 term. The elected directors are:
- Olivia V. Yanson
- Leo Rey Yanson
- Ginnette Y. Dumancas
- Charles M. Dumancas
- Anita G. Chua
- Arvin John V. Villaruel
- Daniel Nicolas P. Golez
Following the election, the board reappointed Leo Rey Yanson as Chairman and CEO and confirmed Olivia V. Yanson as Treasurer and Corporate Secretary.
With a clear legal backdrop and a renewed leadership mandate, VTI is poised to execute its aggressive modernization program. The plan aims to solidify its position as the backbone of inter-provincial travel in the Philippines, ensuring that Ceres Bus Liner continues to connect communities across the archipelago with improved safety, comfort, and reliability.
