Representatives from the University of the Philippines Diliman participated in the 17th World Conference on Transport Research (WCTR), held from July 6 to 10, 2026, at Toulouse Capitole University in Toulouse, France. Hosted by the Toulouse School of Economics, the triennial conference brought together transport researchers, practitioners, policymakers, engineers, and decision-makers from around the world. The event also marked the 50th anniversary of the World Conference on Transport Research Society (WCTRS).
Researchers from the UP National Center for Transportation Studies (UP NCTS) presented three studies addressing tactical urbanism, pedestrian safety, and inclusive public transportation.
Mr. Glenn Simon Latonero delivered an oral presentation entitled “Did Tactical Urbanism Improve Pedestrian Safety? A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Maginhawa Street, Quezon City, Philippines.” The study assessed tactical urbanism interventions using crash data, spot-speed measurements, perception surveys, and a walkability audit. Its findings highlighted the potential of temporary, low-cost street improvements to enhance pedestrian safety, crossing comfort, accessibility, and walkability.
Engr. Julshabar Halil presented a poster entitled “Pedestrian Activity and Perceptions in Tactical Urbanism: Comparative Evidence from Two Philippine Corridors.” The study examined pedestrian activity and public perceptions across two corridors where tactical urbanism interventions were implemented. Together, the two tactical urbanism studies emphasized the value of evidence-based evaluation in determining how temporary interventions can inform long-term road safety, street design, and sustainable mobility policies in the Philippines.
UP NCTS Research and Extension Fellow Dr. Ma. Sheilah Napalang presented the paper entitled “Determinants of Passenger Satisfaction Among Elderly and Persons with Disabilities in Fare-Free Bus Service” during the Cultural and Social Issues in Transport session. The study examined the satisfaction of elderly passengers and persons with disabilities using Quezon City’s fare-free bus service. Its findings provide insights into developing safer, more accessible, reliable, and inclusive public transportation services that respond to the needs of vulnerable commuter groups.
Mr. Latonero also attended a meeting of the WCTRS Special Interest Group C4 on Traffic Safety Analysis and Policy. The group provides a platform for researchers and practitioners to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and remain connected between the Society’s triennial conferences. His participation created opportunities for continued engagement and potential collaboration with international experts in road safety research, analysis, and policy.
The Philippine delegation included representatives from UP Diliman—particularly UP NCTS, the School of Urban and Regional Planning, and the College of Engineering—as well as researchers from other Philippine universities and Filipino doctoral students pursuing transportation studies at international institutions. Many of the delegates are members of the Transportation Science Society of the Philippines (TSSP), a professional organization that promotes transportation research, education, and practice in the country. Their participation facilitated academic exchange, strengthened professional networks, and opened opportunities for future research collaboration with international experts and institutions.
Through its participation in WCTR 2026, UP NCTS reaffirmed its commitment to advancing research that supports safer, more inclusive, sustainable, and evidence-based transportation systems in the Philippines.
