University of San Carlos has developed a technology-based transport system aimed at supporting public transport modernization in the Philippines. The project, titled Digital Transformation of Philippine Road Transport: A Scalable Blueprint for Public Utility Vehicle Modernization, was presented at the TFT Global Student Competitions 2026 and focuses on improving passenger experience and operational efficiency in public utility vehicle systems.
The proposed framework integrates real-time vehicle tracking, passenger monitoring and cashless payment systems using Internet of Things technology, cloud computing and digital financial platforms. The system employs a dual-server architecture on Amazon Web Services, consisting of NaviCore for vehicle navigation and terminal management and WalletCore for digital transaction processing. The team also developed supporting hardware including QBoard for GPS tracking and 4G communications, “Eplete” for RFID-based passenger monitoring and EvTrak information boards displaying live vehicle information at waiting stations. The system additionally supports digital payments through platforms including GCash, Maya and QRPh.
The project was designed as a scalable model that could support broader public transport modernization efforts in the Philippines. The development team stated that the initiative seeks to address long-standing transport challenges such as congestion, limited real-time information and cash-based fare systems while demonstrating how locally developed technology solutions could contribute to future mobility systems.
