ABSTRACT
This study explored the lived experiences of persons with disabilities (PWDs) using public transportation in Iloilo City, with emphasis on mobility, independence, and participation in daily life. Employing a qualitative research design, data were gathered through in depth interviews with selected PWD participants and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that fare discounts, priority seating, and modernized transport systems contributed to improved affordability, safety, and confidence in independent travel. Despite these improvements, participants reported persistent barriers, including limited physical accessibility, boarding challenges, and insufficient space for mobility aids. The study underscores the need for strengthened transport policies, sustained modernization, and continuous dialogue between PWD commuters and local authorities to achieve equitable and inclusive public transportation in Iloilo City.
Keywords: Experiences, Persons with Disabilities (PWD), Public Transportation Services
INTRODUCTION
Iloilo City, distinguished as the "Most Loyal and Noble City," currently ranks fifth nationally among highly urbanized cities and holds the top position among those located outside Metro Manila. In 2026, the city earned significant global recognition, including the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award, highlighting its dedication to environmental sustainability and urban cleanliness.
Furthermore, Iloilo was designated a Role Model City by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and ICLEI in recognition of its successful nature restoration initiatives (Daily Guardian, 2024). As of 2026, the city’s population is estimated at 518,000, which includes approximately 15,643 registered Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), accounting for roughly 3.02% of the total population (Macrotrends, 2026).
Central to the city's urban evolution is the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP). Launched by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in 2017, the PUVMP seeks to transform public transportation—specifically jeepneys—by enhancing safety, reliability, and efficiency. The program mandates the replacement of outdated units with modern public utility vehicles (PUVs) equipped with advanced safety technologies and automated fare collection systems.
Shifting away from the traditional individual-ownership model, the PUVMP requires operators to consolidate into cooperatives or corporations to streamline route planning and operational monitoring. Additionally, the initiative professionalizes the sector by instituting fixed salaries for transport workers and ensuring mandatory government benefits, such as PhilHealth, SSS, and Pag-IBIG. For Iloilo City, the PUVMP serves as a pivotal framework for fostering a cleaner and more sustainable urban transport system (Emaas et al., 2025).
Complementing these modernization efforts is the legal mandate of Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 (BP 344), or the Accessibility Law. This legislation ensures that individuals with disabilities are entitled to safe and independent movement within public spaces. BP 344 requires that buildings, roadways, and public transport systems be designed to eliminate physical barriers, thereby fostering full societal participation. This law applies to both public facilities and private establishments, mandating features such as standardized ramps, handrails, accessible entry/exit points, wide corridors, and reserved parking. Regarding infrastructure and transit, the law requires dropped sidewalks with non-slip surfaces, clear pedestrian pathways, designated stops, and priority seating within vehicles, while strictly prohibiting discrimination against passengers with disabilities (National Council on Disability Affairs, 1982).
Despite the introduction of modernized public transportation intended to enhance system efficiency in Iloilo City, a significant gap remains between policy and experience. Many individuals with disabilities continue to encounter persistent mobility challenges, suggesting that while the transport system has modernized, it may not yet be fully inclusive or compliant with the standards set forth by BP 344.
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