itsngrayce

[itsngrayce]

A LOOK INTO ABENSON, ONÉSIMUS, AND DUNKIN'

The Philippines is home to a wide variety of homegrown brands that have withstood the test of time, competition, and even the challenges of a global pandemic. In this blog, we explore three established companies—Abenson Ventures, Inc., Onésimus Corporation, and Golden Donuts, Inc. (Dunkin')—and gain insight into their journeys, struggles, and what makes them thrive today.

ABENSON VENTURES, INC.

Trade Name: Abenson

Industry: Retail

Years in Operation: Over 55 years

Abenson is a household name in Philippine retail. From electronics to appliances and gadgets, Abenson has built a solid reputation over the past five decades. Starting with an estimated capital of just ₱1 million, the company has grown to become a trusted retail chain under the leadership of its founder, Benito Lim, and now his son, Winston Lim.

Their organizational structure in stores includes:

Branch Head → Retail Associate → Store Officer Control → CSS → RSS → Promoters

We had the chance to speak with one of Abenson’s Branch Heads, who began her career with the company as a cashier on March 28, 2011. Through dedication and hard work, she rose to Cashier Supervisor, became a Store Officer Control in 2014, and finally earned her position as Branch Head in 2022. Her journey is a testament to the value of effort, patience, loyalty, and minimizing complaints.

She shared:

“Everything you do just needs effort, hard work, and loyalty to the company. Patience too, because you cannot reach what you have today without those.”

Like many businesses, Abenson struggled during the pandemic due to the closure of malls and limited customer interaction. However, the company has since recovered and is now growing and expanding steadily.

ONÉSIMUS CORPORATION

Trade Name: Onésimus

Industry: Retail & Manufacturing

Founded: 1991

CEO: Ed Canlas

Main Branch: Manila

Onésimus is a proud Filipino brand known as the country’s leader in men’s formal wear. With over 30 years of excellence, it has become a go-to name for suits, barongs, and wedding attire, even expanding internationally. Competing with names like Kultura, Onésimus thrives by innovating and staying true to Filipino design roots.

The company started humbly—much like SM—and focused initially on suits. Over time, they expanded to barongs and wedding garments. Today, each store is managed directly by assigned supervisors, ensuring consistent service and brand representation across all locations.

Onésimus is a great example of how innovation, cultural relevance, and consistent quality can drive long-term success.

GOLDEN DONUTS, INC.

Trade Name: Dunkin’

Industry: Food and Beverages

Founded: 1950

Founder: Bill Rosenberg

Dunkin’, known globally for its iconic donuts and coffee, has been a favorite in the Philippines for generations. Its origin story is both simple and brilliant. Founder Bill Rosenberg observed how customers loved dunking their donuts into coffee. This sparked the idea for a first-of-its-kind “Handle Donut”, made especially for dunking.

“Some things—like donuts and coffee—are simply better together.”

That simple observation turned into a multi-billion-dollar brand that continues to evolve with the times. In the Philippines, Dunkin' remains a go-to place for sweet treats and a comforting cup of coffee.

Final Thoughts

These three companies—Abenson, Onésimus, and Dunkin’—show us different sides of Filipino business: retail strength, cultural fashion innovation, and food industry creativity. Behind every brand is a story of passion, perseverance, and purpose.

Whether you're sipping coffee with a donut, getting fitted for a formal suit, or buying a new appliance for your home, remember that each brand has gone through years of growth, learning, and hard-earned success to serve you better.

[itsngrayce]

Commuters and Operator Perspectives on Bus Transport

Public transportation plays a crucial role in the daily lives of commuters—especially students. While buses are often preferred for their comfort, several concerns continue to affect the experience. Here’s what more individuals had to say:

Mr. Pairat – Bus Operator at Donsals Tours

Mr. Pairat shared the operator's side of the story. One of their biggest challenges is the lack of passengers at certain times, which impacts income. Regarding technological advancement, he said that their company would only adopt applications or modern systems if mandated by law or required by their management, noting that implementing such systems would be costly.

Princess Leoh Ranoa

Princess chooses to ride buses because of the air conditioning and comfort. However, she mentioned that the fare feels a bit expensive, especially for daily commuting.

Ma. Lourdes Apolinar

Just like Princess, Ma. Lourdes values the comfort buses provide, especially thanks to the air-conditioned environment, making it a more pleasant option than other modes of transport.

Franzo Jimenez

Franzo appreciates how comfortable buses are, but he finds it inconvenient when drivers allow more passengers even when the bus is already full. This affects the quality of the ride, particularly during long commutes.

Bridgette Acera

Bridgette raised a serious concern about inappropriate behavior by some conductors, saying that some are perverts, which is deeply troubling and calls for stricter enforcement and complaint mechanisms. She also mentioned the long waiting times, particularly the inconsistent intervals between bus arrivals.

Alliah Luayon

Alliah doesn’t experience much trouble with bus waiting times during regular hours, but she finds it very hard to get on a bus during rush hour, when most vehicles are already full.

Jennifer

Jennifer also struggles with getting a ride during rush hour, often having a hard time hailing a bus when going home due to crowding.

The perspectives gathered from both commuters and a bus operator paint a fuller picture of public bus transportation

Commuters overwhelmingly value the comfort offered by buses, especially air conditioning, making them the preferred mode of transport.

Overcrowding, rush hour congestion, and long waiting times remain critical problems.

Safety issues, including inappropriate behavior by some conductors, need to be addressed seriously.

Operators are hesitant to adopt modern systems due to cost and lack of regulation, despite rising demand from commuters for real-time tracking and digital solutions.

As both users and service providers navigate these challenges, one thing is clear: there’s a growing need for a smarter, more efficient, and safer bus commuting system—one that benefits both passengers and operators alike.

[itsngrayce]

Week 13: The Good, The Bad, and What Could Be Better in Bus Commuting

As public transportation continues to be a part of students’ daily lives, the experiences shared reveal not just convenience and comfort, but also recurring problems that need attention. Here are more insights from students regarding their daily bus commutes.

Heart

For Heart, the comfort of riding a bus is the biggest advantage. However, she pointed out unprofessional behavior from some conductors who allow more passengers even when the bus is clearly full. She also raised concern about the poor maintenance of buses, which affects the overall experience.

Emmanuel Solangon

Emmanuel appreciates the safety and comfort that buses offer. Though he noted that fares can be a bit expensive, he understands it varies depending on the bus cooperative. He added that some drivers used to drive jeepneys, which may explain why some still display reckless driving behavior. His main concern is the long waiting time due to a lack of buses, and he suggested that more units should be added to improve service frequency.

Francis Felicitas

Francis shared that the air-conditioning provides relief during hot weather, which makes bus rides comfortable. However, he was alarmed by drivers speeding, especially when passengers are still standing, as it puts everyone at risk. He also criticized conductors who shout at passengers, calling it unprofessional and stressful.

Janine Pingcas

Janine expressed concerns about bus drivers not waiting for passengers to settle before speeding off. Still, she finds the ride generally comfortable due to the air conditioning, which is a great help in today’s hot climate. She also made an interesting observation: most bus commuters are young people. Older individuals often avoid buses due to motion sickness or health concerns, especially with enclosed air-conditioned spaces.

Ken Tupino , Nikki Cayon, Marianne Pasilan

These three students share the same sentiment: they prefer buses because of the comfort and convenience they provide. The air-conditioning, seating, and reliable routes make it a go-to transport mode for their daily commute.

Conclusion

Comfort and air-conditioning are the main reasons students prefer buses.

Unprofessional behavior from conductors, reckless driving, and poor bus maintenance are serious concerns.

Many students expressed a desire for more buses to reduce long waiting times.

There's also a strong call for better discipline and courtesy among bus personnel to improve the commuting experience.

These voices reflect a clear need for modernized, well-managed, and commuter-friendly transport systems. Listening to students' feedback can help shape safer, more respectful, and more efficient public transportation.

[itsngrayce]

WEEK 12

Commuting is a daily reality for many students. While some find convenience in riding buses, others face challenges that affect their daily routines, comfort, and overall commuting experience. Here are more stories from students who shared their insights and suggestions to help improve public transportation.

Christian Adajar

Christian rides the bus daily. His main complaints are that some drivers drive too slowly, causing him to be late for school, and the waiting time of 30–40 minutes for buses to arrive in Tablon is very inconvenient. He suggested that conductors should limit the number of passengers to ensure comfort for everyone onboard.

Cris Standford Lagunay

Cris also commutes daily by bus. He noticed that some buses don’t have air conditioning and that conductors continue to board passengers even when the bus is full. Another issue he raised is that some conductors do not apply the correct student discount, even when there is a ticketing system. Like Christian, he suggested that limiting passengers would help reduce discomfort, especially for those who end up standing.

Ray Jasper

Ray’s commuting experience depends on the time of day. During rush hour (around 7 PM), he finds it difficult to get a bus, but around 5 PM the situation is better. He also complained about the long waiting time and poor maintenance of bus facilities. Ray suggested a unique idea: an app feature that allows passengers to press a button to alert the driver when they want to stop, instead of having to shout “para.”

Claide

Claide prefers buses over jeeps because of the comfort and air-conditioning, especially with the current high heat index. Despite the higher fare, he still chooses buses. However, he shared that it’s easier to catch a bus in the morning, while afternoon commutes are much harder. His suggestions include a bus tracking app and a digital payment system that accepts cards.

Jezel Maglasang

Jezel shared that bus services vary greatly. Some are comfortable, while others are unbearably hot. She also mentioned that some buses charge higher fares compared to other public transport options, which she finds unfair and inconsistent.

Sofia Bianca Amano

Sofia observed that conductors still let passengers in even when buses are full. She also finds the 10–15 minute wait time inconvenient. She suggested the development of an app that allows users to book a bus seat, similar to booking a ride in a car-hailing service.

Kurt Dave Virtorillo

Kurt complained that the air-conditioning in some buses isn’t cold enough, though he said the fare is fair. Like many others, he noticed that conductors still board passengers even when the bus is already full, making the ride uncomfortable for everyone.

[itsngrayce]

Week 11

Here are more stories from students who rely on buses for their daily commute. These insights reflect a shared need for better transport services, especially in terms of passenger treatment, waiting times, and route efficiency.

Destiny Gear

Destiny rides the bus depending on the situation. She noticed that some conductors choose which passengers to let in—especially avoiding those waiting on highways, as they usually pay a smaller fare. She also complained about the long waiting time and the fact that conductors still allow standing passengers even when the bus is already full. Despite this, she prefers Donsals buses for their convenience.

Angel Abugar

Angel chooses to ride the bus mainly because of the comfort and air-conditioning. She suggested that it would be helpful to have a tracking app—similar to Move It—but specifically for buses. The app could show bus locations and estimated arrival times, helping passengers decide whether to wait or choose another option. Like Destiny, she also prefers Donsals buses.

Yasser Tomawis

Yasser uses the bus every day. His main complaint is the delay in arrivals, which usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. However, overall, he considers the bus service good and reliable.

Kate Abigail De Guzman

Kate shared issues with minibus services, saying that some conductors don’t properly check if all passengers have safely exited, which can cause people to get stuck in the door. She also mentioned that many bus seats are damaged, and operators should ensure regular maintenance. Additionally, she experienced missing her stop, even after reminding the conductor.

Abby Kaye Y. Nadal

Abby, a regular Orotsco commuter, said she doesn’t have major problems with the buses themselves. However, she complained about the attitudes of some conductors. Regarding arrival times, she finds them manageable since the intervals between buses aren’t too long.

Zynnah Ortiz

Zynnah also rides the bus regularly. Her main concerns are heavy traffic and the fact that buses are often full. To guarantee she can ride, she usually has to go to the bus terminal. Other than that, she has no major complaints.

Casey Saguing

Casey uses the bus as her main transport. However, when she’s in a hurry or running late, she opts for Move It as an alternative. She complained about having to wait up to 30 minutes for a bus since her pick-up point is not at a terminal, which makes the wait longer.

[itsngrayce]

Week 10: Real Stories of Bus Commuters

In this week's interview, we asked students from different areas about their daily experiences with commuting by bus. Their stories show both the everyday struggles and small wins of riding public transportation—especially buses.

Abegail (Tablon to USTP)

For Abegail, commuting can be a challenge. The hardest part is when buses are full, and she has to squeeze into tight space of buses—especially when standing is the only option. As a USTP student, she finds it very inconvenient that most buses don’t stop at the school gate. Instead, they drop passengers off at Agora, which means she has to walk a long way, even when she’s running late.

She also mentioned rude conductors and long waiting times—sometimes up to an hour. Despite this, she prefers Orotsco buses, since they stop right in front of the school. Her suggestion? Have designated loading zones, and most importantly, an app that tracks bus arrivals and locations, so students like her can plan better.

Nina (Jasaan)

Nina’s main issue is that buses are often late, especially when she’s on her way home. She has to leave early in the afternoon to avoid missing the last trip—a stressful routine for students who already have busy days.

Eve (Opol)

Eve shared that some bus drivers tend to choose passengers, refusing to pick up those waiting along the highway. She believes a solution could be a bus tracking app that also shows seat availability, making it easier for people to know when to go out and where to wait.

Jericka (Tagoloan)

Jericka talked about how conductors still ask passengers to stand even when the bus is full. This makes the ride uncomfortable and tiring, especially after a long day at school.

Krisha (Tagoloan)

Krisha had similar issues. She finds it frustrating that even when buses are already full, they still let in more passengers. On top of that, some drivers and conductors are rude, making the experience even worse. All she wants is to rest on her way home, but that becomes impossible with overcrowded buses.

Mika Coralasan (Agusan to USTP)

Mika rides the bus daily because it’s accessible from her home in Agusan. However, she avoids Donsal buses because they don’t stop at USTP. She prefers Orotsco buses instead.

She also had a bad experience where drivers ignored passengers from Agusan and Cugman, giving priority to Tagoloan commuters. Rush hour is her biggest challenge—between 6 PM and 7 PM, buses get very crowded, and getting a ride becomes difficult.

Rex Simene (Maramag)

Rex shared a more positive experience. He doesn’t have many complaints about commuting because he usually just sleeps during the ride, which he finds very convenient. This shows how comfort and quiet during travel can make a big difference, especially for long-distance commuters.

Conclusion

From these stories, we clearly see that students experience common problems like overcrowding, rude drivers, inconsistent routes, and long waiting times. While some prefer certain bus lines like Orotsco for their convenient stops, others feel disappointed by unfair passenger treatment.

One suggestion stood out among all: a mobile app to track buses in real-time. Many students believe it would greatly help to know when the next bus is arriving and if there are available seats. Features like scheduled stops, terminal maps, and seat availability would make commuting less stressful and more efficient for students everywhere.

[itsngrayce]

Week 9: GrabBus Passenger Interviews and Suggestions

This week, we talked to several passengers about their experiences with bus commuting.

Fatima Rean (Zayas)

Fatima likes riding the bus because of the air conditioning, and she thinks the fare is reasonable. However, sometimes she misses her stop because she falls asleep while on travel. She has no major complaints since she can easily switch to another mode of transport if needed, as long as she reaches her destination.

Jesse

Jesse pointed out a big problem—overloading. He believes buses that exceed the Land Transportation Office (LTO) regulations should be penalized because overloading is not just inconvenient for passengers but also increases the risk of accidents.

On the positive side, he likes that buses are not too hot, they don’t take too long, and the conductors are helpful. He also appreciates that conductors remind passengers of their stop.

Jesse’s Suggestion: He believes an app that tracks buses in real time would be very helpful. This would let passengers see if a bus is coming so they don’t waste time waiting. If no bus is available, they can choose alternative transport vehicle.

Earl Shan

Earl thinks the air conditioning is good, but the fare is too expensive.

Zhanter (Villa)

Zhanter’s biggest issue is overloading, where conductors let people in even when there’s no space, causing passengers to be squeezed together. However, he noticed that after past complaints, bus staff became more accommodating. He doesn’t mind switching between buses and jeepneys. His usual waiting time is 30 minutes.

Noel

Noel rides the bus daily and also complains about overloading. He sometimes has to stand, which can be uncomfortable. Payment is fine, but some buses fill up fast. He suggests improving bus services.

James

James also takes the bus daily and thinks the service and fare are reasonable. He suggests increasing the number of buses in his area and setting up a proper terminal, especially for new passengers who are unfamiliar with the routes.

Raymond

Raymond has two bus options: one expensive but safe, the other cheaper but hot and overcrowded. Cheaper buses allow too many passengers, while the expensive ones limit the number of people they take in. He added, if there is enough budget he would choose to ride on expensive bus because if feel like he will surely arrive safe. He believes it is the responsibility of bus operators to make sure passengers travel safely. He also noted that buses leave on time, whether full or not, but many still choose to overload.

How GrabBus Can Improve

The biggest issue passengers mentioned this week is overloading, which makes rides uncomfortable and unsafe. Many commuters also want more buses and proper terminals.

Jesse’s idea really caught our attention because it really aligns with our objectives for our app. He suggested of a bus tracking app. With real-time updates, so passengers won’t have to wait too long or risk riding overcrowded buses. They can plan their trips better and even decide on other options if no bus is coming. It can make commuting much easier, safer, and more convenient for everyone.

[itsngrayce]

Week 8: GrabBus Passenger Interviews and Suggestions

This week, we asked passengers about their experiences riding the bus.

Maria Pamela Quilang (Lumbia)

Maria rides the bus when she goes to her on-the-job training (OJT). She likes the bus more than the jeep because jeeps are too hot and need to be full before leaving. Even though jeepney fares are a little cheaper, she prefers the comfort of the bus. She also likes that conductors remind passengers when they reach their stop.

Alyssa Dacapio (Bugo)

Alyssa says bus service depends on the situation. She doesn’t like standing in a crowded bus, especially near the door, because it feels unsafe. She also notices that some air-conditioned buses don’t feel cool. If possible, she prefers jeepneys but takes the bus when she’s in a hurry. She has no problem waiting for a ride since jeepneys arrive quickly, and if there’s no jeep, she waits for a bus. She thinks standing passengers should not be allowed and suggests adding more seats.

Lisah Mae Adorable

Lisah sometimes rides the bus but prefers jeepneys because some drivers take shortcuts, helping her reach her destination faster. She thinks bus fares are okay.

Jesseil Mae Rubin (Villa)

Jesseil likes the air conditioning and thinks buses are faster than other rides. But she doesn’t like that conductors sometimes don’t return her change, and she feels shy asking for it. She also finds it frustrating that conductors still take in more passengers even when full, jokingly asking if they plan to put people on the roof. She suggests stopping overcrowding so the air conditioning actually works.

Samantha (Bugo)

Samantha finds the bus more convenient than jeepneys, especially because of the air conditioning. But during rush hour, buses get too crowded, and people are forced to stand. She likes the ticketing system because it makes sure fares are correct. She suggests modernizing bus services with an app to track buses so people can plan their trips. She also thinks there should be proper bus terminals, especially in rural areas where buses are fewer.

Margarette Panong (Orotsco)

Margarette rides the bus every day but doesn’t like how buses still take in passengers even when full. Some conductors are nice, while others are not. She usually waits 30 minutes for a ride.

Katrina Tabag (Balingasag)

Katrina also takes the bus every day. She dislikes that some conductors don’t give the correct change. She usually waits 30 minutes to an hour for a ride.

How GrabBus Can Improve

Passengers mostly complain about overcrowding, standing passengers, weak air conditioning, and conductors not returning their change. Many suggest adding more buses, more seats, and making sure conductors returns the correct fare.

One great idea is to have an app that tracks buses so people know when a bus is coming. Another helpful suggestion is setting up proper bus terminals, especially in areas with fewer buses. These changes can help GrabBus make commuting easier, safer, and more comfortable for everyone.

[itsngrayce]

Week 7: Commuter's Experiences with Public Transport

Public transportation remains a daily challenge for many commuters. Our latest interviews with passengers highlight persistent issues such as overcrowding, inconsistent fares, and long waiting times.

Carene primarily commutes using rural buses. She appreciates the cool air conditioning inside the bus, which provides some relief during the trip. However, she finds the fare system frustrating since it is based on terminal pricing rather than the actual distance she traveled. Additionally, she struggles to tell the conductor her stop due to the loud speakers at the front.

Irene relies on buses for transportation, but she often experiences overcrowding. She observed that even when the bus is already full, conductors continue to let more passengers in, making the ride uncomfortably hot. This situation worsens during rush hours, leaving little to move and making travel stressful for passengers.

Mary Grace regularly commutes by bus, and she finds rush hour, especially at 7 AM, particularly challenging. During this time, buses take longer to arrive, and when they do, she often has to stand due to the high volume of passengers. The waiting time for a bus can reach up to 30 minutes, which causes delays in her schedule. Additionally, she has encountered issues with fare collection, such as receiving incorrect change and being charged regular fare despite having an ID for discounts. She also finds that some conductors have poor attitudes and fail to accommodate passengers properly, despite them paying the correct fare. Sometimes, if the bus is too long to arrive she prefers taking a jeep instead.

Elen and Gina use both buses for their daily transport. During non-rush hours, their commute is relatively smooth, but during rush hour, it becomes hard, with overcrowding and long waits. They prefer non-air-conditioned buses since air-conditioned ones make them feel nauseous. One of their concerns is that sometimes they do not receive the correct change. Additionally, they have observed that when the bus is already full, it becomes extremely difficult to get off at their stop, and they find it hard to tell the driver their stop due to the full passengers inside the bus.

Francis frequently experiences overcrowded buses, particularly during rush hour. He also finds the fare system inconsistent, with prices sometimes varyin for unclear reasons. One of his key suggestions is to follow capacity limit for buses to prevent excessive overcrowding. He also believes that standing passengers should not be charged the same fare as seated passengers, as they do not receive the same level of comfort.

Elena often has to stand when riding Donsals buses, which can be tiring and uncomfortable. She also faces long waiting times, particularly at night, when buses are less frequent. Additionally, she has encountered conductors with poor attitudes, making the commuting experience even more frustrating.

Commuters continue to face issues such as overcrowding, inconsistent fares, long waiting times, and poor conductor behavior. Many suggest enforcing passenger limits, improving fare transparency, and increasing bus frequency to make commuting more efficient and comfortable. Addressing these concerns would greatly enhance the daily travel experience for passengers.

[itsngrayce]

Week 6: Interview

Commuter's Perspectives on Public Transport Bus: Issues and Suggestions

Public transportation plays an important role in people’s daily lives, yet many passengers experience various challenges. We interviewed 7 individuals about their experiences with buses in their areas. Their insights highlight common problems and potential improvements. Some of the Common Problems Faced by Commuters are

1. Overcrowding and Long Lines

One of the most common complaints is overcrowding. Many passengers, including Reina, Gessalyn, and Christine, mentioned that buses are often full, and long lines make commuting inconvenient. Christine noted that buses in Canitoan do not leave until they are full, causing delays. Gessalyn from Calaanan also pointed out that passengers are sometimes forced to stand, especially in rush hour and she's in a hurry it makes the ride uncomfortable.

2. Air Conditioning Issues

While air-conditioned buses are preferred over jeeps and vans, not all passengers are satisfied with the cooling system. Gessalyn shared that the air conditioning in some buses is weak, making long trips uncomfortable, especially during the afternoon when traffic is heavy.

3. Harsh Drivers and Conductors

Grace and Gessalyn raised concerns about drivers and conductors. Grace observed that some drivers are harsh, while Gessalyn noted that some drivers tend to become impatient when he can't hear the passengers voice when they are about to reach their destination. However, Charity shared a different experience, saying that some conductors are friendly.

4. Expensive Fares

The cost of transportation is a significant concern. Christine and Gessalyn believe that bus fares are expensive, especially when compared to traditional transport like jeeps. Gessalyn also suggested that standing passengers should pay a lower fare since they do not get a seat.

5. Delayed and Unavailable Transport

For passengers commuting at night, availability is a challenge. Jiesel from Bulua shared that it takes a long time to get a ride at night. Joy from Kauswagan also noted that buses are not available late in the evening, making commuting difficult for those working or traveling late.

6. Missed Destinations

Christine and Clark mentioned that passengers who fall asleep might miss their destinations. Clark, however, does not consider this a major issue.

Passenger Suggestions for Improvement

Increase Bus Capacity, Reina suggested that buses should be more spacious to accommodate more passengers without overcrowding.

Improve Air Conditioning, Passengers like Gessalyn recommended maintaining better air conditioning, as weak cooling makes long trips uncomfortable.

Adjust Fare Pricing, Some passengers, including Gessalyn, believe that standing passengers should have a lower fare since they do not get a seat.

Enhance the Filipay System, The digital payment system, Filipay, was introduced but not fully implemented due to slow internet connectivity. Gessalyn believes it could be beneficial if improved, especially since it offers discounts based on distance traveled.

Ensure Better Scheduling and Availability, Joy and Jiesel suggested improving the availability of buses at night to help those traveling late.

Preferred Alternative Transport

While buses are a primary mode of transport, commuters also consider alternatives like Jeepneys – Reina and Gessalyn find jeeps more affordable despite the lack of air conditioning.

Vans-Clark prefers vans when buses are unavailable, although he still chooses buses for their air conditioning and one-ride convenience.

Conclusion

Commuters rely on buses for daily travel, but overcrowding, expensive fares, and poor air conditioning remain major concerns. While some passengers appreciate the convenience of air-conditioned buses, they hope for improvements in space, fare pricing, and service quality. Addressing these issues can lead to a more comfortable and efficient public transportation system for everyone

[itsngrayce]

Week 5: Interviews and Suggestions

Several passengers shared their experiences with bus commuting this week. Jiboy, Alfred, Jm, and Jassy said that conductors still let passengers in even when there isn’t enough room. Jiboy also mentioned that some buses in his area do not have air conditioning. They explained that during rush hour it is very hard to hail a bus and that sometimes they even sleep during the ride, which makes them miss their drop-off. They suggested adding more buses and stopping extra passengers from boarding when the bus is full. They also talked about using a ticket system as the mode of payment for other buses.

Cris pointed out that conductors sometimes do not return the correct change and that some bus drivers are hot-headed. He agreed with the others that letting passengers on when the bus is full is a major problem.

Marie shared that when she paid her fare and still had change, a conductor told her to take a picture of the bus plate to get it back. However, when she rode the bus again, she could not get her change because it was a different conductor.

Keith said that sometimes bus drivers take a wrong turn and go far from the proper drop-off. He also mentioned that sometimes the PAO forgets to collect fares from some passengers. Keith, along with Cris and Marie, said that one good thing about the minibus is that it is air-conditioned.

Keith suggested that to help customers by adding a website for emergencies or lost and found items. This idea shows a great way to improve our app and make riding the bus better for everyone.

[itsngrayce]

In Week 4 Customer Interview, several passengers shared their experiences with their commuting experiences. Some mentioned that the conductors often takes in more people than it should, even when it is full. They said that some buses go far off the usual route, and some even ask for more fare than the usual fare. They also said that a Villanueva bus that does not use tickets. Joshua Mariposa and Kent brought up these issues.

Another passenger, Kean, explained that the conductor can be harsh. However, he also mentioned that the bus has air conditioning and is comfortable overall. He did add that sometimes there is a longer waiting time, but these problems do not happen very often.

Mark Gerald shared that he receives good service. His bus does not have a conductor, and he only needs a ticket when he gets off, making his ride simple.

Joshua talked about riding a modern jeepney in Donsal, where the rules are strict and payment is done by PAO. He found this option convenient but noted that in some cases, buses ask for extra fare. He also differentiate the services of other buses. He said that OPUV and Orotsco are more convenient compared to other bus.

Jade said that during rush hour the bus gets very crowded with many people. Despite this, it is still easy for him to ride on bus because it has air conditioning and the quality of service is nice.

Apple Jean mentioned that it sometimes takes a long time to get picked up by a bus, but she said that she chooses to ride a bus rather than a van, since she pays less than she would in a van.

These interviews show that GrabBus could improve by reducing overcrowding and making sure fares are fair. By fixing these issues, GrabBus can offer a safer, more comfortable, and more reliable ride for everyone.

[itsngrayce]

Week 3: Interview

During these interviews, Emilio said since it was hot, he chose to ride a bus from Calaanan to Cogon and vice versa. Every morning, he easily catches a bus and pays with tickets given by the PAO. However, he pointed out that even when the bus is full, more passengers are allowed to board. He also mentioned that one time the air conditioner started smoking, and he added that the bus’s speed depends on the driver.

Cassandra, Lyka, Judie, and Marc Lester shared their views next. They said the conductor plays an important role on the bus, but even when the bus is full, they still let more passengers in. They like the air conditioning and overall comfort of the bus. Cassandra noted that having separate chairs would make the ride even better, while Lyka did not like how conductors decide where people sit. They also mentioned that some electric buses now use a scan for cashless payment. They also mentioned the late arrivals of buses, which makes it harder on their part.

Jewel explained that she rarely has problems because the conductors and drivers know her well from riding often. However, she has seen that even when the bus is full, conductors still let more passengers on, saying there is still room. This can be an issue for older people who struggle to find a seat.

Cindy rides the bus during early morning. The bus is crowded, so she often has to stand, which is uncomfortable. On her way home, the ride is usually okay even though the driver often drives fast. Her trip takes about 5 to 10 minutes, and she gets a ticket as proof of payment.

Reflection and Ideas for GrabBus Improvement

These interviews show a few key areas where GrabBus can get better. Overcrowding is a big problem. Allowing more passengers in even when the bus is full that makes the ride uncomfortable and can be unsafe, especially for the elderly. GrabBus could use a system that controls how many people board or shows the bus capacity in real time.

Also, the issues with the smoking air conditioner and different driving speeds suggest that keeping vehicles safe and well-maintained should be a top priority. By addressing these problems, GrabBus can make the ride safer, more comfortable, and more efficient for everyone.

[itsngrayce]

WEEK 2 :INTERVIEW

"The Daily Struggles of Bus Commuters in Cagayan de Oro"

Public transportation is a daily necessity for many people in Cagayan de Oro. However, based on our recent interviews, commuters face several challenges that make their journeys difficult specifically in buses.

Finding a Ride is a Struggle

Hazel, a commuter from Villanueva, finds it hard to secure a bus ride, especially when going home. Sometimes, buses are already full, yet they still let passengers in, leaving many standing. The same issue is experienced by Jade, who travels from Bukidnon. She often waits up to an hour for a bus, only to find it overcrowded.

(Hazel)

(Jade)

Overcrowding and Discomfort

Kyle and Chelsea and his friend both expressed concerns about bus overcrowding. Kyle noticed that elderly passengers are often left standing because buses continue taking in people even when full. Chelsea an his friend, who commutes to Ayala from Lapasan, finds themselves standing in the afternoons and evenings. They appreciates air-conditioned buses but struggles with slippery seats.

(Kyle)

(Chelsea and his boyfriend)

Issues with Fares and Booking

Some passengers, like Shamara and her friend, have experienced incorrect fare classifications. Student privilege (SP) are sometimes charged regular fares. Additionally, due to shyness or miscommunication, some passengers don’t receive their correct change. Hazel suggested implementing a booking system or a message board to improve communication between passengers and drivers.

(Shamara and her friend)

(Hazel)

The Need for a Better System

Many commuters agree that improvements are necessary. From Kyle’s observation of long lines and hot, crowded buses to Jade’s experience with fast-driving buses in Carmen Hill, the need for a safer and more organized system is clear.

(Kyle)

(Jade)

A Smart Solution: Message Board System (Hazel)

One of the most interesting suggestions came from Hazel, who suggested a message board system similar to how Fetch works. This feature would allow passengers to communicate with bus drivers in real time, making navigation easier and improving coordination for pickups and drop-offs. This way, passengers can input their locations, see bus statuses, and avoid unnecessary waiting times. Implementing this feature in GraBus could significantly enhance the commuting experience

Reflection

Asking the seven individuals about their commuting experiences made us realize that they share many of the same struggles when riding a bus. However, Hazel’s suggestion stood out the most. It made us seriously consider her idea and think, "What if we include this in our app?"

[itsngrayce]

Commuters’ Insights on Public Transport: Challenges and the Need for a Bus Tracking System

As part of our research for our project proposal, we conducted interviews with seven individuals to understand the common struggles of daily commuters and how our proposed system could address them. Here are the names of the people we interviewed

Alliyah Bulawit

Francis Kyle Borces

Ana Rose Bongcales

Jaspher Lucman

Ronnel Suason

Sylvia

Michelle

Challenges Faced by Commuters

Unclear Arrival Times & Bus Availability

According to Alliyah Bulawit, one of her biggest concerns is the weak air conditioning in buses, which makes commuting uncomfortable. She also struggles with not knowing when the next bus will arrive, leading to long waiting times.

Similarly, Mrs. Sylvia and Mrs. Michelle experience waiting almost an hour due to a lack of buses. They believe that a bus tracking system would be beneficial, as it provides high-tech solutions to address these delays.

Skipping Stops & Forgetfulness

Francis Kyle Borces highlighted that one of her main frustrations is buses skipping stops. This causes passengers to miss their rides and wait even longer. Additionally, she mentioned that conductors sometimes forget passengers’ requested stops, adding to the inconvenience.

Delayed Fare Transactions

For Ana Rose Bongcales, a major issue is delayed change of conductors. This slows down the boarding process and often frustrates commuters who are in a hurry.

Overcrowding and Unfair Fare System

Jaspher raised concerns about standing in buses yet still paying the same fare as seated passengers, which he finds unfair. He also mentioned:

°Overcrowding makes the ride uncomfortable.

°1-hour waiting time due to a lack of buses delays his travel which sometimes causes him to get late.

°Sometimes, the ticketing devices run out of battery, forcing conductors to shift to manual ticketing, which slows down transactions.

He believes that a bus tracker would be extremely helpful, especially in his area, as it would allow him to track available buses in real time and reduce waiting times.

Communication Barriers in Overcrowded Buses

Mr. Ronnel Suason observed that conductors and passengers sometimes struggle to hear each other, especially when buses are overcrowded. He supports the idea of a stop request system, as it would provide seamless communication between passengers and drivers.

Positive Feedback on the Bus Tracking System

Despite these challenges, all the interviewees agreed that a bus tracking system is a great idea. They believe that

It would reduce waiting times by showing real-time bus locations.

A stop request system would improve communication and prevent missed stops.

High-tech solutions like this would modernize public transport, making commuting more efficient.

Reflection and Insights

From our interviews, it is clear that commuters face significant challenges, including long waiting times, overcrowding, unclear bus arrival schedules, and inefficient fare transactions. The lack of real-time tracking and communication between passengers and drivers worsens these issues.

One major insight is that the implementation of a bus tracking system combined with a stop request feature can significantly enhance the overall commuting experience. By providing real-time updates, reducing waiting times, improving fare charging accuracy, and enabling communication, public transport becomes more efficient and trustworthy.

The positive feedback from our interviewees reinforces the need for a smart transport solution, proving that our project has practical value and potential impact in addressing everyday commuter struggles.

[itsngrayce]

Getting to know Myself: My personality traits and Index Test

Experiencing and achieving a better understanding of oneself is at times a journey full of surprises. As an example, I recently took a personality test called the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, or MBTI as it is commonly abbreviated. I have to admit that I was somewhat doubtful about the accuracy of the results before and while taking the test, so I was surprised to learn just how well the results described me, even if they couldn’t capture all the little details and complexities of who I am.

So, here it tells me that my personality type is Adventurer ISFP-T —someone with creative soul that finds beauty in everything they do. It also says that I am very sensitive and attentive to my emotions and to every individual around me. Furthermore, I am a go-with-the-flow type of person, adapting to situations as they arise.

Core traits:

Introverted (54%): My preferred social activities are entertaining but being alone brings me the most comfort. I get my best rest during solitary activities because it is when I truly feel like myself.

Observant (58%): I tend to listen first before speaking. This characteristic allows me to capture details that are at times often overlooked by people.

Feeling (60%): When I make decisions, my values come first, and I consider how my actions will impact people. Because of this, I ponder complicated things like how my actions will affect the people around me.

Prospecting (56%): I strive for a flexible way of life. Instead of strict planning, I prefer being open minded to possibilities and shifting with the flow of things as they unfold.

Turbulent (63%): Self-reflection motivates me to grow, and because I have a tendency to overthink things, I am often hard on myself.

When I reflect on those traits, I can pick out some traits like self-reflecting quietly, being kind, and being willing to change. It is easy to understand that I can be quite hard on myself, but I put efforts into attempting to understand those around me and being gentle with myself. This has, however, been a wonderful way for me to learn more about myself because it reminds me to accept my strong points and exercise patience with my weak points.

In my career path result, it tells me that I thrive in environments that allow me to express my creativity and involve hands-on work. I tend to struggle with traditional structures and long-term planning. I agree with this result since I know I learn more effectively when tasks involve practical, hands-on activities.

These are my strengths and weaknesses based on my career path results. I am a creative and adaptable person who works well with others and easily finds practical solutions. However, I struggle with rigid structures, sensitivity to criticism, avoiding conflict, and long-term planning. I can say that some of these are true because I recognize these traits in myself. I also understand that my strengths can sometimes be my weaknesses, and I acknowledge this, with the intention of improving them.

In my personal growth result, it says that my journey is deeply connected to staying true to myself and balancing creativity with discipline. I tend to find it challenging to align my creative ideas with structure, but I agree with this because I know I grow when I can express myself freely while working on becoming the best version of myself.

These are my strengths and weaknesses based on personal growth. Being true to myself, emotional awareness, prioritizing my values, and learning things by doing them are some of my strengths when it comes to personal growth. I can say that this result is true since I always try to be sensitive toward others, and I easily learn things through hands-on work. The ones listed above are my weaknesses, and I know I need to improve them. I’m working on balancing my focus on the present with better future planning, being less of a perfectionist, improving how I express my feelings, and overcoming new challenges by viewing them as opportunities to grow.

I am really shocked by the result regarding my relationship because I realized that it truly describes my relationship with my boyfriend. I always make him feel loved and accepted. However, I sometimes need my personal space when I feel down and unmotivated, which makes it hard for me to express what I feel. But I am grateful that my partner understands me.

I have a strong ability to understand and connect with others emotionally, offering them the comfort and support they need. I’m loyal and dedicated once I commit, especially in relationships, and I tend to attract people who share my authentic approach to life. However, I sometimes struggle to express my feelings clearly and avoid conflict, which can leave issues unresolved. Since I don’t like arguing with others, I always try to avoid confrontation. I also need personal space, which others might not always understand, and my idealistic expectations in relationships can lead to disappointment if things don’t meet my high standards.

My Innovation Index test result.

I am not surprised by my score, especially in the areas of trust, collaboration, comfort zone, and innovation zone. I know that I tend to avoid trusting others and struggle with communication. However, I’ve realized that in business, trust helps make communication faster, collects feedback more effectively, and encourages new ideas. My low score in collaboration also makes sense because my difficulty trusting others often creates challenges when working with people.

I also scored low in the comfort zone area because I tend to avoid stepping into unfamiliar situations. Similarly, my low score in the innovation zone reflects my self-awareness, as I see myself more as someone who gets things done rather than someone who focuses on new ideas. Overall, I’ve learned which areas I need to work on to grow and improve.

Completing this personality testing has helped me confirm some of my natural habits and provided me with a plan for improvement. No one test is able to tell the whole story about us, but it has allowed me to understand myself better and appreciate my strengths while tackling challenges with care. It is not so much about trying to fit a personality type but rather using the information to understand myself and my relationships better. Knowing my strengths and what I need to work on, I am striving to become a better person.