DCOTT Undas 2026: Davao Bus Terminal Expects 80,000 a Day
Davao's overland bus terminal is preparing for 70,000 to 80,000 passengers a day during the Undas rush. Here is what travellers should know before heading to the provinces.
In this article
The Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) expects up to 80,000 passengers a day during the DCOTT Undas 2026 rush, according to SunStar Davao and Mindanao Times. Terminal head Aisa Usop gave the estimate at a media briefing this week, saying the surge should begin in the last week of October as families travel home to visit their departed relatives.
What DCOTT expects
Usop said the terminal typically handles about 1,500 bus trips a day during the holiday, equal to roughly 70,000 to 80,000 passengers. SunStar reported that Undas observance starts on Friday, 30 October 2026, so the busiest days are likely to cluster around that long weekend.
Higher fuel prices and a recent fare increase could push passenger numbers either way, Usop said, but she still expects more travel because Undas is a time for family reunions. Mindanao Times reported that the fare increase took effect on 28 September 2026; neither report gave the amount, so check the posted fares at the terminal.
How the terminal is preparing
- DCOTT has asked the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for special bus permits on high-demand routes.
- It has asked the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to check that buses are roadworthy.
- "Oplan Harabas," surprise drug tests of drivers and conductors, is expected to take place.
- The City Mayor's Office provided additional large baggage scanners as backup, and the terminal reports 32 working CCTV cameras.
- The "No Pick-Up Policy" remains in force at the terminal.
Safety tips from the terminal head
Usop warned passengers about people posing as porters who charge high fees. Legitimate porters wear uniforms with a number on the back of the shirt, and passengers pay at the porters' table, where an officer of the day is assigned.
She also cautioned against peddlers who offer to carry bags for free and then ask passengers to bring goods past the entrance, where peddlers are not allowed. At the baggage scanner, bags that look alike are sometimes picked up by mistake, so check yours before leaving. No pickpocketing had been reported so far, SunStar said.
Quick facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Expected passengers | 70,000 to 80,000 a day |
| Bus trips | About 1,500 a day |
| Rush starts | Last week of October |
| Undas observance begins | Friday, 30 October 2026 |
| Fare increase effective | 28 September 2026 |
Tips for travellers
- Travel a few days early or late to avoid the peak.
- Confirm current fares and schedules with your bus company or the terminal.
- Keep valuables with you and use only uniformed porters.
- Flying instead? See our guide to hotels near Davao airport and the taxi procedure at Davao International Airport.
- Planning a longer trip? Estimate costs with the trip budget calculator and read more on our Davao page.
Sources
- SunStar Davao: DCOTT expects up to 80K daily passengers for Undas 2026
- Mindanao Times: DCOTT expects passenger influx during Undas 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many passengers does DCOTT expect for Undas 2026?
DCOTT expects 70,000 to 80,000 passengers a day once the rush starts in the last week of October, according to SunStar Davao.
When does Undas 2026 start?
SunStar reported that Undas observance starts on Friday, 30 October 2026.
How can I avoid fake porters at DCOTT?
Use only porters in uniform with a number on the back of the shirt, and pay at the porters' table where an officer of the day is assigned, as advised by the terminal head.
