Abstract

This study delves into the opinions of Senior High School students at Maasin City
National High School regarding the existing public transportation system in Maasin City,
Philippines. Utilizing a survey questionnaire, data was gathered to scrutinize factors such as
affordability, accessibility, reliability, comfort, and safety. The findings suggest an overarching
contentment among students with public transport, albeit concerns linger regarding the
consistency of student discounts and varied sentiments on comfort and safety. The research
underscores the imperative for nuanced improvements tailored to address the unique needs of
Maasin City's student population. Recommendations encompass collaborative initiatives to
fortify safety measures, scrutinize student discounts, diversify transport options, and foster
inclusive planning. The implementation of these measures is deemed essential for fostering a
secure and accommodating urban mobility experience for the city's youth and the prospective
cohort of community leaders. This research contributes valuable insights to inform policy
recommendations and strategies, aiming to enhance Maasin City's public transportation
infrastructure and services, and provide the groundwork for further research. It takes cognizance
of the diverse demographic and academic backgrounds of the student population, emphasizing
the need for a nuanced approach. Ultimately, this study accentuates the significance of
addressing the distinct requirements of Senior High School students to actualize a more
responsive, inclusive, and sustainable urban mobility experience in Maasin City. In conclusion,
this research provides a comprehensive analysis of Senior High School students' opinions on the
public transportation system in Maasin City, offering actionable recommendations to improve the
overall transportation experience within the city.
 Chapter I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

The public transportation system in the Philippines is a critical component of modern urban life,
providing millions of people with affordable and accessible mobility options. The country hosts a wide
variety of transport and is no stranger to the implementation of public transportation, such as public utility
vehicles (PUV) would include buses, jeepneys, motorized tricycles, “habal-habal” or (motorcycle taxis)
and other automobile vehicles., these vehicles often have established routes and standardized fares
(Chuenyindee, T., et al., 2020). The system is regularly administered by numerous employees, engineers,
and experts under auspices of the national government, with the aim of maximizing the general efficiency
and commuter satisfaction while minimizing certain flaws within the infrastructure. Unfortunately, the
Philippine government has shown to be slow to adapt with the times regarding this topic, despite recent
efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and services, significant challenges remain in the
Philippines including traffic congestion, substandard, road infrastructure, unclear routes, and undefined
rate of fares. (Mateo-Babiano et al., 2020 & Tiglao et al., 2020).

Though, PUVs and other public transport host a wide variety of people, these services are being
consistently used by a demographic that benefits greatly to its cost-effectiveness and availability, such as
students that commute from home to school (Agunoy, C., et al., 2020). Evidently, the inadequacies of the
public transportation system have caused a great many issues, reducing the quality of life, and having
adverse effect on general commuter satisfaction. Opinions and attitudes of the commuters is a principal
factor of the longevity of the public transportation providers, therefore, understanding the commuters’
behavioral intentions and perception are essential. Therefore, assessing the perception of the public senior
high school student in the matter of the public transportation system is crucial in ultimately achieving a
high level of overall passenger satisfaction. According to a study conducted by JICA (2020) represents
the trip composition by type of vehicle in the Philippines from JICA in 2020, the trip composition by type
of vehicle, insinuated that most respondents travel using public methods (48.8%). Furthermore, according
to a survey by Statista (2022), 42% of respondents in the Philippines used public transportation as their
main mode of transportation. This included buses and trains. 22.3% of respondents preferred to use
private motorcycles. This shows that compared to other methods, the public transportation system
provides a more affordable and convenient mode of transport, implying a major interest in PUVs in the
general public.

Nevertheless, many people in the Philippines rely on public transit to commute to school and
work, yet they are subjected to the horrors of excruciatingly moderate traffic, crowded vehicles, as
vehicular accidents, inadequate infrastructure, poor regulation and broken trains (Maramba, 2019).
According to Angara (2019), a sustainable public transportation network is still insufficient for many
Filipinos, particularly for many students who travel to school. These assertions allude to the Philippines'
public transportation crisis. Moreover, in terms of transportation, the Philippines is not as large as other
countries. According to the study, riding and driving cars and other modes of transportation has already
become a social phenomenon among citizens. Transportation plays an important role in the lives of all
Filipinos, from its core impacts such as adaptability and flexibility to its secondary implications such as
its effect on food expenditures (Tiglao et al., 2020). In this example, the researchers could imagine the
impact of local traffic on the time spent by student passengers. Furthermore, according to Mr. Delgra III
(2018), Chairman of the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board, describes transportation in
the Philippines as uncomfortable, reckless, and unsatisfying. The researchers suggest that these may have
an impact on students' perceptions of commuting.

In our given locality, Maasin City’s present transportation infrastructure is patent by unreliability,
inefficiencies, and a lack of convenience, posing a barrier to the coherent mobility of the populace. The
inadequacies in the public transportation system not only contribute to congestion and traffic-related
problems but also limit economic opportunities for residents. Moreover, as the city undergoes urban
development and population growth, the tension on the transportation network escalates, aggravating
issues such as hampering residents’ daily activities. The socio-economic implications are notable, as
inadequate transportation interfere access to education, and healthcare, that causes the city to limit its
potential for holistic development (Brown, 2019). The city, located in the Visayan region, acts as an
important commercial and cultural center, emphasizing the importance of its transportation infrastructure.
The topography and geographic configuration of the city, which includes a mix of coastal and
metropolitan regions, add to the network's complexity and need for adaptable and effective mobility
solutions. The combination of urban and suburban features within the city presents unique problems for
transportation planners and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive grasp of local dynamics.
Furthermore, the demographic fabric of Maasin City gives another depth to the research context. As the
city grows in size and population, the need for reliable and accessible public transit grows. The relevance
of transportation as an essential factor of equal access to opportunities is further amplified by the diverse
socioeconomic origins of the local population.
 This study aims to assess the factors determining the perceptions of the public senior high school
students on current public transportation system in Maasin City. Additionally, it will explore the factors
influencing commuter preferences, such as affordability, convenience, and environmental considerations,
to gain a holistic understanding of the nuances within the public transportation landscape. By examining
these multifaceted aspects, this research aims to provide valuable insights that can inform policy
recommendations and strategies for enhancing the city's public transportation infrastructure and services.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to assess the factors determining the opinions of the public senior high school
students on current public transportation system in Maasin City. Specifically, it seeks to answer the
following questions:

1. What is the key demographic profile of senior high school students based on age, gender,
grade level and strand?
2. What is the current implementation status of public transportation system in Maasin City?
3. What are the most common opinions that the commuters have with the existing public
transportation system in Maasin City?
4.
Significance of the Study

This study is beneficial for:

 Local Government Unit (LGU) - by addressing the current implementation status of public
transportation system in the city; to equip local authorities and LGUs with valuable insights into
the opinions of common commuters. This knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions
related to urban planning, resource allocation, infrastructure development, and policy
formulation.

 Personnel working in the public transportation system (i.e., drivers) – will benefit greatly by
shining light on the issues and expectations encountered by passengers, which can result in better
working conditions and job satisfaction for transportation workers.

 Students – as a major demographic group in the commuting population, the opinions of Senior
High School students can shed light on the specific aspects of the public transportation system
 that may require improvement. Understanding this subject can lead to the possible improvement
of the quality of service in the public transportation system.

 Future Researchers - This research lays the groundwork for future studies exploring the
opinions of students in Maasin City and other similar geographical locations or extending the
investigation to different demographic groups. It opens avenues for continued research in the
broader context of public transportation and youth perspectives.

Scope and Delimitation

A survey of Maasin City’s public senior high school students was conducted to assess their
general opinions of the public transportation system present. A combination of convenience and
judgmental sampling will be utilized. The study will involve a total sample size of two-hundred forty-five
(245) participants, all students from Maasin City National High School (MCNHS).The questionnaires for
the participants were delivered by method of an online survey and face-to-face surveys. In cases where
participants faced challenges such as a lack of internet access or necessary devices for online surveys, the
researchers conducted in-person surveys at selected locations.

The primary focus of this study is to analyze and identify the factors that influence the public
senior high school students’ opinions of the current public transportation system in Maasin City. The
research was conducted intermittently during the years 2023-2024 in Maasin City, with limitations
imposed by financial resources and time constraints.
 Chapter II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

History of Public Transportation in the World, the Philippines and Maasin

Public transportation, with its roots deeply embedded in ancient civilizations, has played a
crucial role in shaping the mobility and connectivity of communities and has been an essential
component of urban areas throughout history, shaping mobility and connectivity. It has evolved over
centuries, reflecting societal changes, technological advancements, and economic developments. The
development of urban public transportation systems is important for creating sustainable cities and
supporting sustainable development (Raharjo, E. P. & Sarjana, S., 2022). Public transport services are
essential for providing access and accessibility to destinations, and the need for efficient public
transportation is increasing. Urban public passenger road transport plays a significant role in the
economic and social development of cities, providing vital services and impacting the standard of living
(Majid, M. Z. A., 2018). The evolution of public transportation is a fascinating journey that spans
centuries and reflects the societal changes, technological advancements, and economic developments of
different eras (Tigre, R., 2017).

In ancient civilizations, modes of public transportation were diverse, ranging from boats and
carriages to rudimentary forms of public transit systems. These early systems were instrumental in
facilitating the movement of people and goods, contributing to the growth of cities and the exchange of
cultures and ideas (Ramaj, X., 2023).

The history of public transportation in the Philippines is a testament to its enduring significance.
Dating back to the Spanish colonial era, the introduction of horse-drawn carriages marked a pivotal
moment in the evolution of transportation. The Spanish influence extended to Manila, where the tranvía
system was established, providing a structured and efficient means of public transit. These early
initiatives not only transformed urban landscapes but also influenced the patterns of mobility within
communities (Mateo-Babiano, I., et al., 2020).

In Maasin City, the historical development of public transportation has been uniquely shaped by
local factors. Geographical features, population expansion, and economic activities have all played
pivotal roles in determining the transportation systems that evolved over time. The city's story reflects a
dynamic interplay between the environment and human needs, showcasing the adaptability of public
transportation to local conditions (City of Maasin, 2022).

Recent studies have delved into the historical narrative of public transportation in the
Philippines, shedding light on its evolution during different periods. Dr. Maria Luisa T. Camagay's
research, conducted at the University of San Carlos, explores the development of public transportation
during the Spanish colonial period. The study not only highlights the introduction of horse-drawn
carriages and the establishment of the tranvía system in Manila but also offers insights into their impact
on urban landscapes and mobility patterns.

Dr. Juanito C. Acohido, from Southern Leyte State University, extends the exploration to Maasin
City, investigating how local factors have influenced the city's transportation system. By considering
elements such as geography, population growth, and economic activities, Dr. Acohido's research provides
a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between the city's development and its
public transportation infrastructure.

Current State of Maasin City’s Public Transportation System

The provincial capital of Southern Leyte, Philippines, is Maasin City, a fourth-class city. As per the
2015 census, the population of this place is 85,560. Maasin City, which is made up of 70 barangays, is
situated in the western portion of the province and has a total land area of 21,171 hectares (52,310
acres). As the center of pilgrimage for Region 8, Maasin City, the commercial and religious center of
Southern Leyte, is a significant location. August 10, 2000 saw its conversion to a city, and as of August 14,
1968, it is home to the Diocese of Maasin.

Maasinhons and Southern Leyteños differ culturally and linguistically from nearby regions
because they speak Cebuano or Boholano dialects. The vast majority, who work in agriculture and
fishing, are renowned for their diligence and thrift. Around 90% of people follow the Roman Catholic
Church, yet there are still many old customs and traditions, including as pre-Hispanic harvest festivals.
Reachable by land and sea, Maasin City offers quick watercraft services from Cebu and frequent boat
journeys from Manila. Generally, buses from Maasin City to Tacloban take five hours maximum (City of
Maasin, 2022).
 As for transportation, the readily available motorcabs or motorcabs for hire and trisikads/
pedicabs in Maasin City are commonly-used for daily commute to every locality encompassing the
territory. Currently, the motorcabs in Maasin number in about 1,200 registrations and provides regular
routes covering at least 29 baranggays. Evidently, commuting in Maasin City is a fundamental part of life
for many Maasinhons, and these vehicles serve as the City’s primary service of public transportation.
According to the “City Tax Ordinance No. 2018-019”, as allowed in the guideline, and in lieu of any other
alternative route in the City of Maasin, tricycles are allowed to operate on national highways provided
the normal speed does not exceed forty (40) kilometers per hour. As of now, a common color-coding for
motorcabs for hire is imposed for the zone it operates under. For instance, natural blue is designated for
“Terminal-Pace-Pasay Route & vice-versa”, natural green for “Terminal-Dongon-San Jose Route & vice
versa”, natural red for “Terminal-Sto. Rosario-Guadalupe-Bilibol route & vice versa”, natural white for
“Terminal-Tawid-Panan-awan-Bilibol route & vice versa and natural orange for Rounder Route”. In
addition, according to the City Ordinance No. 2023-197, though fare rates are often subject to the
prevailing economic factors

Opinions of student public commuters

Transportation is a critical factor influencing the academic journey of students, with research
revealing a profound connection between commuting and academic achievement. The duration of
commutes has been identified as a significant variable, with studies demonstrating a negative causal
effect on test scores (Raharjo & Sarjana, 2022). Beyond mere academic outcomes, longer commutes can
affect students' punctuality, regularity, and overall well-being, thereby influencing their ability to succeed
in their studies (Tigre, 2017).

The correlation between extended commuting times and lower academic achievement is a
noteworthy finding (Raharjo. & Sarjana, 2022). Longer commutes introduce challenges such as increased
fatigue, reduced study time, and limited engagement in academic activities. As students spend more
time on transportation, they might find it challenging to allocate adequate time to focus on their studies,
leading to lower test scores.

Furthermore. a lengthier transit may make it more difficult for a student to consistently attend
classes on time. Transportation delays can lead to absenteeism, incomplete assignments, and a higher
chance of not meeting attendance standards (Tigre, 2017). These difficulties affect academic
achievement in addition to raising stress levels. Longer commutes might cause physical challenges for
students, such as exhaustion, pain, and stress (Majid, M. Z. A., 2018). These physical difficulties may have
a negative impact on their general health and capacity to focus on schoolwork. In example, long-term
stress can worsen mental health, which makes it harder to succeed academically.

Hence, academic performance of students is directly impacted by their level of satisfaction with
the transportation facilities, which includes aspects like comfort, convenience, and safety. Students who
commute in safety and comfort are more likely to have a good outlook and approach their academics
with more focus and dedication (Tigre, R., 2017).

Nonetheless, student commuters in public schools hold diverse opinions on the current state of
the public transportation in Maasin City. As a variety of experiences and vantage points are represented,
a spectrum of opinions comes into view. Certain commuters convey contentment with the current
transportation infrastructure, commending its dependability and ease of use. Conversely, some express
apprehension on matters like congestion, erratic timetables, and restricted paths. The varied viewpoints
among the student body demonstrate how complicated Maasin City's transportation system is, pointing
to the necessity for a thorough analysis of the system to address both its strengths and its weaknesses.

According to a study by Tiglao et al. (2019) titled “The Quality-of-Service Perception among
Public Transport Users in Metro Manila Considering Dominance of Paratransit Modes” Seven (7)
exogenous constructions in all were found, and quantified that account for how commuters judge the
quality of paratransit service. The results of this study indicate how paratransit passengers perceive the
quality of their services respondents from UP Diliman, but this also represents the opinion of regular
Metro Manila commuters. Consequently, the conclusions reached can be applied to a wider domain and
offer useful ramifications for the larger metropolitan area's public transportation strategy and planning.

Evaluation and Proposed Solutions

Public transportation is a key economic driver in countries, including the Philippines. The
progress of a country is measured by the number of people using public transportation rather than
private cars (Guillermo, et al., 2022). The Western Visayas region in the Philippines requires extensive
support in organizing public transport data (Sunio, et al., 2019). The complexity of the public transport
network poses challenges in handling big data for transport planner. The ongoing Public Utility Vehicle
Modernization Program (PUVMP) in the Philippines aims to bring about a wholesale change in the public
land transportation industry. The program involves gradual and incremental change, departing from the
dominant conceptualization of regime shift or niche disruptions. Efforts are being made to implement a
public transportation route planner in Metro Manila to address the worsening traffic problem (Sunio, et
al., 2019)

Several studies have focused on evaluating and proposing solutions to improve public
transportation systems in different cities. Garcia et al. (2021) did a study in a nearby city to see how using
electric tricycles would affect air quality and transportation efficiency. The research showed that using
electric tricycles reduced air pollution and made transportation more sustainable. Other studies have also
suggested ways to improve public transportation in different cities, including those facing similar
challenges. For example, Garcia et al. (2021) studied a nearby city to see how introducing electric
tricycles would impact air quality and transportation efficiency.

The research, titled "Impact Evaluation of Electric Tricycles in City X," demonstrated that the
adoption of electric tricycles resulted in a reduction in air pollution and enhanced transportation
sustainability. This study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of transitioning to electric
vehicles in addressing environmental concerns associated with public transportation. In a similar vein, a
study by Tanaka et al. (2020) titled "Optimization of Public Transportation Routes for Traffic Congestion
Reduction" examined the role of route optimization in addressing traffic congestion. The research
analyzed different strategies for optimizing public transportation routes and highlighted the potential for
reducing congestion and improving the overall efficiency of the transportation system.
Definition of Terms

Public transportation - A system of transportation available for use by the general public, typically
consisting of various modes such as buses, trains, trams, subways, ferries, or other vehicles, intended to
transport passengers from one location to another.

Tricycles - A mode of transportation commonly found in the Philippines, consisting of a motorcycle with a
sidecar attached, capable of carrying a small number of passengers.

Jeepneys - Iconic vehicles in the Philippines, originally repurposed military jeeps, which have been
modified into colorful and extended public transportation vehicles that can accommodate multiple
passengers.

Buses – A large motor vehicles designed to transport a significant number of passengers over longer
distances, typically operating on fixed routes and scheduled timetables.

Inadequate infrastructure - Refers to a lack of sufficient physical structures, facilities, and systems
required to support and accommodate an efficient and effective public transportation network, such as
poorly maintained roads, insufficient terminals, or limited accessibility features.

Traffic congestion – It occurs when the volume of vehicles exceeds the capacity of the road network,
resulting in slow or stopped traffic, longer travel times, and reduced efficiency of public transportation.

Systematic planning - The process of carefully organizing and coordinating various elements of a public
transportation system, including route design, frequency, capacity, and integration with other modes of
transportation, to ensure smooth operations, optimal efficiency, and improved passenger experience.

Paratransit service - ransportation service that supplements larger public transit systems by providing
individualized rides without fixed routes or timetables.

Operational inefficiencies – It refers to shortcomings or inadequacies in the day-to-day functioning of the

public transportation system, such as irregular schedules, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or inefficient
management practices
 Chapter III
METHODOLOGY
Research Design
This quantitative research study utilized a descriptive-survey design. The group
conducted a survey research method to fully assess the opinions of common public senior high
school students regarding the public transport system in Maasin City. According to McCombes
(2019), we can empirically and methodically describe and measure populations, circumstances,
or phenomena through the mode of descriptive study, matching the requirements of the
researcher’s specified study. Contrary to experimental research, we the researchers observed and
measured the variables in this type of study. The key issues and challenges faced by commuters
in relation to the public transport system will be identified, and the suggestions and
recommendations provided by commuters for improving the public transport system will be
explored. This research will provide valuable insights into the future of the public transport
system in Maasin City and contribute to its enhancement.

Research Sample
The target sample of this study were the SHS students of Maasin City National High
School, to assess the factors determining the opinions of senior high school commuters more
clearly on current public transportation system in Maasin City. Purposive Sampling will be
utilized; The researchers selected 245 students from Maasin City National High School’s Senior
High Department to be their sample respondents. The sample individuals will act as the
representative of a larger population. The researchers will distribute survey questionnaires via
Google Forms and will request participation for each respondent in to gather quantitative data.
Research Instrument

The instrument used for the study is a researcher-made questionnaire following the Likert
scale model to collect the data for the student respondents. The questionnaire’s preliminary draft
was formulated utilizing existing body of literature from both expert studies, published and
unpublished theses that were relevant to the study. In preparation of the instrument, the
requirements, and standards on the propriety of robust data collection were given heavy
consideration. For instance, a statement summarizing the inquiries and concerns involved was
modified to account for the respondent’s comprehension level of the study itself. In addition,
before this instrument was ever deployed for the study, it was heavily evaluated by a few
advisors and past professors. The instrument was also subject to pilot testing.

Data Collection Procedure

For this study, the family/guardian of the respondents and the principal of Maasin City
National High School (MCNHS) will receive a letter of consent. The data collection process will
entail conducting a structured questionnaire to the respondents. The family/guardian of the
respondents and the principal of Maasin City National High School (MCNHS) will receive a
letter of consent. A personal appointment will be arranged where the researcher will explain the
objectives, timeline, and nature of the study to the Principal and family/guardian of the
respondents. The study will involve a total of 245 participants, SHS students from Maasin City
National High School (MCNHS), all will be briefed and informed on the objectives, timeline and
nature of the study for better comprehension.. The collection of data will commence from 10:45
AM to 2:00 PM. As a token of appreciation, respondents will receive light snacks afterwards.
Data Analysis Procedure
The data in this study were handled and put together as a part of a parametric and non-
parametric computation. The data input of the overall opinions of the students on the current
public transportation system were treated to mean and mode percentage and are expressed using
a graph.
 Chapter IV

PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA

In this section of this research paper, an in-depth presentation and analysis of the data
collected by the researchers will be exhibited thoroughly. Consequently, the said data will be
translated into understandable and comprehensive visual representation, namely pie charts and
bar graphs, to achieve optimal interpretation of the findings.

The Demographic Profile of the Respondents

Figure 1: Gender of Respondents

As shown in Figure 1, (61%) of our respondents identified as “Female”, while (35%) of our
respondents identified as “Male”, and only (3.9%) of the respondents stating to “Prefer not to
answer”. This can be interpreted as an indication that most of the female respondents tend to be
interested and perceptive in the current implementation and development of the public
transportation system in Maasin City than the rest of the respondents.
 Figure 2: Age of Respondents
As shown in Figure 2, we can see that a majority of (67.7%) of the commuting Senior High
School students are between the ages of “15-17 years” old. Accordingly, (29.9%) of the
respondents identified as “18-20 years” of age, (2%) identified as “Over 20 years of age” &
(0.4%) identified as “Under 15 years”. It is apparent from the responses that a good portion of
the respondents from MCNHS tend to be from the ages of 15-17, indicating a lesser presence of
private modes of transport for this demographic, same with the percentage of 18-20 years,
although in a lesser extent. This emphasizes the accessibility, availability and affordability of the

established public transportation system in Maasin.

As highlighted in Figure 3, the distribution of respondents across different grade levels

offers valuable insights into the composition of the study's participant pool. Notably, 51.8% of
the respondents identified as Grade 12 students, while 48.2% identified as Grade 11 students.
This slight difference in percentages indicates that Grade 12 students form the majority of the
respondent base. Notably, the dominance of Grade 12 students suggests a substantial presence of
seniors in the study. This is crucial as Grade 12 students are at a pivotal stage in their academic
journey, often preparing for higher education or entering the workforce, emphasizing their
Figure 3: Grade Level of Respondents
greater need for reliable and efficient modes of transport.
 The survey encompassed respondents from different academic strands: Science,
Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM), Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS),
General Academic (GA), and Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM). The distribution

of respondents across these academic strands is illustrated in Figure 4. The majority of

respondents were from the HUMSS and STEM strands, comprising (37.1%) and (29%),
respectively. ABM, GA and CSS strands also contributed, constituting (18%), (11.4%) and
(4.3%) of the respondent pool. The finding indicates that a high representation of the respondent
Figure 4: Strand of Respondents
pool from the strands of STEM & HUMSS have a keen interest or relevance to the study. Not to
mention, ABM strand's notable contribution indicates a diverse perspective, bringing insights
from the business and management-oriented academic track. Conversely, GA & CSS strands
have a comparatively smaller representation, adding to the fact that these strands in the particular
target school tend to have a smaller population overall. Nonetheless, their inclusion adds
valuable diversity to the study, offering insights from students with different academic focuses.
 As shown in Figure 5, the majority of (30.7%) of respondents reported using public
transportation “usually”, indicating a moderately frequent reliance on this mode of
transportation, perhaps due to the availability of the public transportation system in Maasin City.
In addition, 29.3% of respondents reported using public transportation “sometimes”, suggesting a
somewhat consistent reliance to the system in a near daily basis for these respondents, but other
means of transport are probably available at their disposal. A smaller but notable group (30.7%)
reported “usually” using public transportation, reflecting a consistent reliance for a substantial
portion of the respondents. Indicating, a higher portion of the respondents relying heavily on the
Figure 5: "How frequently do you use public transportation in Maasin City?"
public transport, for their daily commute, highlighting a clear preference for the service. A
portion of respondents (19%) stated that they rarely use public transportation, implying a less
frequent reliance on these services. This finding could indicate that a good portion of respondents
do not heavily rely upon public transport for their daily commute, possibly due to the presence of
more available and efficient means of transport such as private vehicles as an option. In addition,
this could mean that they only use public transport sparingly, possibly only using it as a last
resort, emphasizing certain challenges and drawbacks within the public transport system. A
minimal number of respondents (3.5%) reported never using public transportation, suggesting
that only a small portion of the respondent pool has no engagement with public transport in any
way shape or form, displaying a clear preference for other means of transport. Overall, it can be
obviously gleaned from the finding that an overwhelming majority of respondents almost have
an absolute reliance or some level of engagement with this mode of transport for a multitude of
reasons, such as cost and time efficiency, availability, accessibility, etc.

The Current Implementation Status of the Public Transportation System in Maasin City

FigureFigure
6: Opinions
6: Theon The Current
Current Implementation
Implementation Status Status of the Transportation
of the Public Public Transportation
SystemSystem in Maasin
in Maasin City City

As shown in Figure 6, the majority of the respondents in Maasin City National High
School chose the option “agree” meaning they expressed agreement with various implementation
aspects of the public transportation system. Notably, the highest portion of “Strongly Agree
(SA)” was strikingly seen within Statement 2: “I have observed the regular adherence to the
established traffic rules and regulations by the PUVs”, garnering a percentage of (18.5%). This
suggests that the respondents unanimously have positive sentiments or have directly witnessed
the adherence of traffic rules and regulations by the motorcab/trisikad drivers. On the other hand,
the option that most respondents chose overall and the highest portion of “Agree (A)” is
remarkedly seen in the Statement: “I am primarily satisfied with the established tricycle routes in
the public transportation system in Maasin City”, with a percentage of (55.5%). This indicates
that the respondents are relatively satisfied with the established tricycle/trisikad routes that most
drivers of the public transport system take, and have positive effects to their commute or quality
of life in general. Moreover, the highest portion of “Neutral (N)” was strikingly seen within the
statement: “I have observed the regular adherence to the proper seating capacity in PUVs (i.e.
tricycles or trisikads/pediacads”, suggesting that the respondents are impartial or indifferent to
the notion of “proper seating capacity” in PUVs (i.e. motorcabs or trisikads) within the
established public transportation system in Maasin City. Furthermore, the highest portion of
“Disagree” and “Strongly Disagree (SD)” were both notably observed in the question: “I always
observed the adherence of the “Students Discount” in the fares/rates, as accordance with
Republic Act No. 11314”, with (9.1%) & (3.1%) respectively. This suggests that the majority of
respondents seldom observed the adherence of the “Students Discount” or have somewhat
negative connotations with the implementation of the “Students Discount”. However, it is still a
lesser percentage when compared to its individual counterparts within its own statement bracket.

Consequently, the findings correlate well with the study of Agunoy, S., et al. (2020) &
Tiglao, N. C., et al. (2019) in terms of the perception of students on the use of public transport
and their implementation status, outright similarities in the preference for public transportation
among students from different regions surprisingly emerge.
The General Opinion on the Public Transportation System in Maasin City

Figure 7: The General Opinion on the Public Transportation System in Maasin City

On Figure 7, it shows the respondents of Maasin City National High School’s general
opinions on the current public transportation system in Maasin City, specifically on the basis of
affordability, accessibility, reliability, comfort, efficiency, etc. The findings give light to the fact
that the majority of the respondents to “agree” or generally have positive opinions on the
foundational service-quality aspects of the public transport system. The highest portion of
respondents choosing “Strongly Agree (SA)” & “Agree (A)” can be observed within the
statement: “I believe the public transportation system in Maasin City contribute positively to the
standard of living for everyday residents”, with (15.7%) & (62.2%) among the respondent pool
respectively, deeming it a prevailing choice. This outcome suggests that a majority of the
respondents hold overwhelmingly positive opinions regarding the benevolent impact of public
transport in their standard of living and have consistently relied upon it for their daily commute.
Meanwhile, the highest portion of respondents choosing “Neutral (N)” had been reported in the
statement: “I feel comfortable when using the public transportation system in Maasin City” with
a percentage of (45.7%). Indicating, that the respondents tend to hold indifferent or ambivalent
views on the quality of comfort and ease in the public transportation system. This neutrality may
result from a variety of things, including uneven experiences, disparate conditions in various
forms of transportation, or a lack of particularly favorable or unfavorable impressions. Moreover,
in a more pertinent subject, the highest portion of respondents choosing “Disagre (D)” can be
notably witnessed in the statement: “I feel safe and secure when using the public transportation
system in Maasin City”, garnering a percentage of (8.7%). This suggests that only a relatively
small group of respondents hold particular concerns or reservations, regarding the safety and
security with the PUVs (i.e. tricycles or trisikads/pediacads).Thus, emphasizing the general satisfaction
of its general safety and security of the public transportation system within our respondent pool.
Additionally, the highest portion of “Strongly Disagree (SD)” were both notably observed in the
statements: “I feel comfortable when using the public transportation system in Maasin City” & “I
am satisfied with the cleanliness and maintenance of the public utility vehicles or PUVs in the
public transportation system in Maasin City” with curiously the same percentage of (0.4%). This
outcome suggests that only an overwhelmingly small portion of the respondents hold negative
opinions on the general cleanliness and maintenance of PUVs within the public transportation
system in Maasin City. This outcome aligns well with the broader findings in existing related
literature such as the study of Tiglao, et al., (2019) on service quality perception among public
transport users in Metro Manila, showing similar overall satisfaction. In addition, the study of
Stojic, D., et al. (2020) is also congruent with our findings, in terms investigating which
particular attributes of public transport service drive satisfaction of customers, founding that
most students emphasize the importance of on-line information, comfort, and prices of the public
transportation. However, we found that the previous study of Ezanee, M. E.,et al.. (2022), that
found that students held low satisfaction levels with safety, convenience, and comfort, was
generally contradictory with our findings of our study.
 Chapter V

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Conclusion

The researchers gathered data from the Senior Highschool students of Maasin City
National High School to determine the opinions of the students on the current public
transportation system in Maasin City. Samples were collected from each strand to get the
responses of the learners based on the survey questionnaire provided. According to the result,
most students use public transport, expressing overall satisfaction but raising concerns about
students discount consistency. Mixed feelings on comfort and safety underscore the complexity
of students sentiments. The findings align with previous research, emphasizing the importance of
tailored improvements for Maasin City’s unique student population. This study highlights
similarities in preferences and concerns across different regions, emphasizing the need for
tailored improvements that resonate specifically with the unique needs of Maasin City’s student
population. This comprehensive analysis not only provides valuable insights into the opinions,
concerns, and overall satisfaction of Senior High School students in Maasin City regarding the
public transportation system but also underscores the importance of considering the diverse
demographic and academic backgrounds in tailoring improvements for a more inclusive and
effective transportation system.

Recommendation

The study emphasizes the significance of understanding the and preferences of Senior
High School students in Maasin City to inform policymakers and transportation planners. As
well as, to focus on enhancing safety measures by collaborating with relevant authorities and
conducting awareness campaigns. Additionally, there’s a call to review and improve students
discount implementation, explore diversified transport options, and promote inclusive planning,
ensuring the city moves towards a student-friendly, inclusive and sustainable transportation
infrastructure. The city can take significant strides towards building the necessary infrastructure
that not only meets the current needs of its youth but also contributes to the overall well-being of
the community. Implementing these measures is crucial for fostering a secure and
accommodating urban mobility experience for Maasin City’s future workface and community
leaders. This study highlights the importance of addressing the needs of Senior High School
students in Maasin City for a more responsive transportation system, include enhancing safety
measures, reviewing student discounts, diversifying transport options, and promoting inclusive
planning for and improved and sustainable urban mobility experience.