Transportation Engineering Division of the Department of Civil Engineering at the World Conference on Transport Research (WCTR) 2026

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.