Overview:
Palau is taking another step toward modern, reliable public transport. Phase 2 of the national bus service introduces expanded routes, shorter wait times, and a new trip-planning tool—making daily commutes easier for communities across Koror and Babeldaob.
By: Laurel Marewibuel
KOROR, Palau (April 6, 2026) — Palau’s public bus service rolled out Phase 2 on Thursday, boosting frequency, expanding routes and adding a web-based trip planner to make commuting more reliable for workers, students and families.
The Ministry of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development, through its Bureau of Development, announced the upgrades, which build on Phase 1’s pilot. New features include buses every 50-60 minutes, extended service to destinations like Sunrise Hotel in Melekeok, better peak-hour coordination and evening runs on government paydays.
Kelory N. Fredrick, chief of the Division of Commerce and National Bus Service, highlighted the changes. “With Phase 2 now launched, residents will experience a more structured, reliable and user-centered public transportation system compared to the pilot nature of Phase 1,” Fredrick said. Key improvements, she said, slash wait times, broaden coverage and introduce digital tools for trip planning and tracking.
Expanded Access for Babeldoab. The upgrades target Babeldoab residents with more routes and evening services. “Workers benefit from more reliable and flexible commuting options aligned with standard working hours,” Fredrick said. “Students experience improved access to education through safer and more consistent transportation schedules. Families and communities gain stronger connectivity to essential services.” Evening runs support late shifts, school activities and reduced reliance on private cars or informal rides, she added.
Sustainability Push Phase 2 advances Palau’s green transport goals by cutting private vehicle use, easing Koror congestion, lowering costs and emissions, and building an integrated network between Koror and Babeldoab. “Continued investments in service frequency, coverage and digital tools will further strengthen public confidence,” Fredrick said.