The
Transportation Engineering Division of the Department of Civil Engineering, De
La Salle University (DLSU) Manila proudly participated in the 17th World
Conference on Transport Research (WCTR 2026), held in Toulouse, France, from
July 6 to 10, 2026. As one of the world's most prestigious gatherings of
transportation researchers, engineers, policymakers, and industry experts,
the conference provided
an international platform
for discussing innovative solutions to transportation challenges and
advancing sustainable mobility worldwide. Organized by the World
Conference on Transport Research Society (WCTRS),
the event brought together
approximately 1,500 participants from various countries to share research
findings, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration in the transportation
sector.
The
participation of DLSU's Department of Civil Engineering reflects the
university's commitment to research excellence and its growing contribution to
the global transportation research community. Six representatives from the
department showcased research studies addressing important transportation issues in the Philippines, ranging
from urban mobility
and pedestrianization to vehicle
electrification, freight logistics, airport planning, traffic management, and
climate-resilient transport systems.
Leading the delegation was Dr. Alexis Fillone,
Professor of the Transportation Engineering Division, who presented a
poster entitled “Redefining the Urban
Transport Network Through Pedestrianization of a Road Corridor: The Case of Naga City,
Philippines.” Presented under
the Special Interest Group on Transport, Land Use, and Sustainability,
the study examined how reallocating road space to pedestrians can contribute to
more livable, accessible, and people-centered urban
environments. The research
highlighted the potential of pedestrianization
initiatives in enhancing mobility while supporting sustainable urban
development.
Also
representing the Transportation Engineering Division was Dr. Nicanor Roxas Jr., Associate Professor, who delivered a lectern presentation on “Assessing the Current Perception on Vehicle
Electrification Use in the Philippines.” Under the
same Special Interest Group on Transport, Land Use, and Sustainability, the study explored
public perceptions and attitudes toward
electric vehicles in the
country. As governments and industries worldwide seek cleaner and more
sustainable transport solutions, the research provided valuable insights into
the factors that may influence the adoption of vehicle electrification in the
Philippine context.
Dr. Riches Bacero, Assistant
Professor of the Transportation Engineering Division, presented a lectern paper
entitled “Assessment of the Freight
Transport Benefits and Policy Implications of the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge (BCIB) in Mega Manila.”
His research was featured under
the Freight Transport and
Logistics Special Interest Group and focused on the anticipated impacts of the
proposed bridge project on freight movement, logistics efficiency, and regional
connectivity. The study also discussed policy considerations that may help
maximize the benefits of large-scale transport infrastructure investments.
The conference also highlighted research
on transportation planning
and infrastructure development in emerging economies. Engr. Neil Andrew Meneses,
a PhD Civil Engineering student from the Transportation Engineering Division, presented a poster entitled
“A Hybrid Dominance-Based Rough Sets Approach in Predicting
Regional Airport Feasibility in the Philippines.” Presented
under the
General
Transport Modes Special Interest Group, the study explored the use of
analytical approaches in evaluating the feasibility of regional airport
development projects. The research contributes
to efforts aimed at improving
transportation connectivity and supporting regional
growth through evidence-based infrastructure planning.
Representing
the department's student researchers, Mr.
Christian Ericson Delos Santos, a BSMS Civil Engineering
student from the Transportation Engineering Division, delivered a lectern
presentation entitled “Unclogging the
Arteries at the Heart of Cebu: Enhancing Urban Mobility Through a Proposed Bus
Rapid Transit (BRT) System Against Flooding Issues in Mandaue City.” Presented under the Special
Interest Group on Transport in Developing and Emerging Countries, the study examined how a proposed Bus Rapid Transit system could
improve mobility while addressing the challenges posed by frequent
flooding in one of Metro Cebu's major urban centers.
The research highlighted the importance of integrating transportation planning with climate
resilience and disaster risk reduction strategies.
Meanwhile, Engr. Lance
Kenneth Mamuyac, a BS Civil
Engineering graduate, presented a poster titled “Multiclass and Single Class Traffic
Assignment Model Applications for an Emerging City Transport Plan.” Under the Traffic Management, Operations, and Safety Special Interest
Group, the study demonstrated
the application of traffic assignment models in supporting transport planning
efforts for growing urban areas. The research contributes to the development of
evidence-based approaches for managing transport demand and improving traffic
operations in emerging cities.
The participation of DLSU's faculty members, graduate students, and
young researchers in WCTR 2026 underscored the breadth and relevance of
transportation research being conducted within the Civil Engineering Department. Their studies addressed
pressing concerns such as sustainable urban mobility, transportation electrification, freight
efficiency, airport development, climate adaptation, and data-driven transport
planning, all of which remain highly relevant to the opportunities and challenges faced by Philippine cities and
communities.
Beyond presenting research, the conference enabled the DLSU delegation to engage with leading
experts and institutions from around the world. These interactions provided
opportunities for knowledge exchange, future research collaboration, and the
exploration of innovative approaches that may be adapted to local
transportation issues. Exposure to international best practices and emerging trends
will further strengthen the department's efforts
in research, instruction, and public service.
The Department's presence at WCTR 2026 reflects De La Salle
University's continuing commitment to advancing transportation research that
creates meaningful impact for society. By sharing Philippine experiences and
perspectives on a global stage, the department contributes to the development
of more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive transportation systems while
reinforcing DLSU's role as a leader in engineering education and research.
Through the accomplishments of its faculty members, students, and graduates,
the department continues to demonstrate that Philippine research can contribute meaningfully to global discussions on the future of transportation.
Article written by: Mr.
Christian Ericson Delos Santos
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