The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) launched their new premium bus service called the Ultimate Bus Experience (UBE) Express last September 6, 2016.
The UBE Express project was conceptualized and initiated to address the growth of airport activity, with an additional two million passengers flying to and from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in 2015. The UBE Express also seeks to address the issue on the scarcity of travel options – accredited airport taxis, buses, jeepneys – and its weaknesses.
All 42 units of the UBE Express will be using the Mercedes MCV C 120 Low-Entry model. The low-entry design, wide spaces and the presence of the ramp makes the bus units elderly and PWD-friendly. The buses are also equipped with on-board WiFi, CCTV cameras, radio communications, and a GPS tracking device that enables the drivers to have real-time traffic updates to avoid congested roads.
To start the UBE Express experience, passengers may opt to book their important transfer in advance as the UBE Express management will be launching an online booking website for their service. Walk-in passengers can also be accommodated in the designated UBE Express booth and loading area in three terminals (Terminal 1 – Arrival Extension area; Terminal 2 – Bay 17; Terminal 3 – Bay 11). Depending on the booking, the buses can also service Terminal 4.
At a fixed price of Php 300.00, the passengers will be given their ticket with the departure and arrival points and the bus number. Upon boarding, they will b assisted by a well-trained driver and one attendant who will accommodating them throughout the entire ride.
Currently, only 21 units are in use. The UBE Express management says that the remaining units will be in service in the succeeding months, servicing the following routes:
