Laktaw-Dabaw: Davao City River Transportation Port and Riverside Park: A Study on Riverside Regeneration Through Urban Mobility and Culturally Responsive Architecture

Davao City in the Philippines currently grapples with severe transportation congestion due to escalating reliance on both private and public utility vehicles. This trend has led to a surge in greenhouse gas emissions, posing significant environmental and public health challenges. The resulting traffic congestion not only impedes commuter and goods transport but also hampers the city's economic vitality. To address these pressing issues, the study proposes the development of a sustainable public transit system, termed the Davao River-Transit (DRT), utilizing the Bangkerohan River Channel. This initiative aims to reduce vehicular traffic on city streets, thereby alleviating congestion and mitigating urban pollution. Culturally responsive architecture plays a pivotal role by integrating sustainable design principles and locally sourced materials, fostering the creation of energy-efficient and environmentally responsible structures. Furthermore, riverside regeneration initiatives seek to tackle economic, social, and environmental challenges by enhancing urban mobility, promoting accessibility and connectivity, and preserving cultural heritage. The envisioned facilities are designed not only to stimulate economic growth and boost tourism but also to generate employment opportunities and strengthen community cohesion and identity through cultural sensitivity. Ultimately, this study's findings are anticipated to benefit stakeholders with aligned interests in riverside regeneration, urban development planners, local river transport operators (bangkeros) in Bangkerohan, public commuters, and organizations dedicated to promoting urban mobility and cultural responsiveness.