Gen Z Pinoy Innovator Builds Real-Time Train Tracker App to Ease Commuting in Metro Manila
- Melissa Santañez
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
Frustrated by unpredictable train schedules, a young Filipino tech whiz has turned his daily commuting woes into a game-changing solution. Joshua Bumanlag, a top graduate from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, developed Rush PH, a real-time, community-powered train tracking web app that helps commuters navigate the LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3 systems in Metro Manila with greater ease and accuracy. With over 80% accuracy achieved through crowdsourced reports, this app is not just tech—it's a lifeline for thousands of Filipino commuters.
🚇 How It Works
Web-based mobile app: No download needed. Just open it in your browser on your phone and instantly access real-time train info.
Crowdsourced data model: Users log in with email and report train arrivals as they happen. This community input gets analyzed to predict ETAs for LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3 lines.
Improving accuracy: The system’s reliability grew from about 77% at launch to around 81%, thanks to more active users reporting train arrivals.
👤 Who Is Joshua Bumanlag?
A top graduate from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Joshua is now a full-time iOS developer at ING
His inspiration? Inconsistent train schedules and better systems abroad in places like Singapore and Thailand—resulting in a passion project aimed at solving a daily real-world problem.
🗣️ Community & Impact
The app’s simplicity—focused on solving a single commuting pain point—has struck a chord with users, including senior citizens who found it “super helpful” and gladly shared it within their circle .
As a free tool supported by volunteer data, it's currently ads‑free but may include ads later to offset server costs .
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
Developed as a progressive web app (PWA) optimized for budget smartphones, ensuring accessibility across socioeconomic groups.
Likely built using modern web frameworks (e.g., React, Vue.js) on the front end, with a lightweight backend to aggregate and display crowd reports. (While specifics aren't publicly available, this architecture is typical for apps like this.)
🔮 What’s Coming Next
Joshua plans to include additional services like PNR commuter rail, jeepney tracking, and even inter-city transit.
He’s also working on a companion app for first-time travelers, featuring route tips, safety alerts, and community-driven travel challenges.
🔑 His Advice
“Start with a problem you know well. If you don’t care about it, you probably won’t finish it.”
That ethos guided Rush PH from a personal need to a grassroots commuter solution
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