The UPLB and UP Diliman (UPD) campuses are now just one bus ride away from each other.

In a significant move to enhance the transportation services between two major UP campuses, UPLB has partnered with the DLTB Co., to revive a dedicated bus route that used to connect UPLB and UPD. This partnership aims to provide a more efficient, safe, and reliable commuting option for UP constituents and members of the larger community.

The collaboration was set after extensive discussion and in coordination with UPD’s Office of the Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs (OVCCA), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, and DLTB, one of the leading provincial bus operators in the country.

UPLB and DLTB have been working together since 2022 to operate the UPLB-LRT Buendia bus route.

The demand for a direct bus service between UPLB and UPD has surged in recent months, driven by the increasing need for inter-campus coordination, research collaborations, and participation in university events.

Commuters have always relied on public transportation, which often involves multiple transfers, extended travel time, and unpredictable schedules. The UPLB-UPD-DLTB collaboration is expected to address these challenges by offering a direct route with multiple scheduled departures.

The UPLB OVCCA conducted a demand survey among 2,888 online respondents to determine the possibility of service and schedules. Test runs started on August 19, 2024, to assess the deployment of bus units per time slot, depending on actual demand.

The DLTB buses now ply the routes on weekdays and Saturdays with the following departure time slots:

UPLB to UPD: 5 AM, 1 PM, and 6 PM

UPD to UPLB: 5 AM, 9 AM, and 6 PM

Key departure points have been established at the Velasco Ave. loading and unloading bay near the UPLB main gate and at the Lakandula Extn. cor. Jacinto St. in UPD.

With a regular fare of Php 165.00, the route traverses the Metro Manila Skyway and Quezon Avenue in Quezon City.

“The organization of a direct commuter bus service connection is a testament to our commitment to ensuring the well-being of our community members, especially those who regularly travel between Los Baños and Diliman. We aim to provide a seamless, comfortable, and safer travel experience for everyone,” UPLB Vice Chancellor Roberto P. Cereno said in a statement.

Cereno also highlighted that the collaboration is part of the UPLB Green Mobility Initiative that promotes the use of public transport to lessen greenhouse gas emission and minimize traffic congestion. Aligned with the future-proofing goal of the university, it also furthers the accessibility and overall sustainability of the campus.

Both UP and DLTB expressed optimism about the long-term success of this initiative to further enhance mobility and safety for the UP community. (Roi Mojado)