Mitchacoy: Connecting Baguio and Abra

For travelers and bus enthusiasts in Northern Luzon, Mitchacoy (often referred to as Mitchacoy Express) is a familiar name. Specializing in the rugged but scenic routes between Baguio City and the province of Abra, this provincial bus line has become a vital link for residents, students, and traders navigating the mountainous terrain of the Cordillera and Ilocos regions.

Main Route: Baguio to Abra

Mitchacoy’s primary operations center around its daily trips connecting the “Summer Capital” to various points in Abra.

• Baguio Terminal: The buses are most commonly spotted at the Slaughterhouse Terminal (also known as the Magsaysay/Rajah Soliman area) in Baguio City. This terminal is a major hub for provincial buses heading toward the northern provinces.
• Abra Destinations: The line provides essential transport for those traveling “Vice Versa” (V.V.) between Baguio and the capital of Bangued, as well as other municipalities in Abra.

Diverse and Modernizing Fleet

One of the most interesting aspects of Mitchacoy for the “Pinoy Bus” community is its eclectic fleet. The company utilizes a mix of Japanese, Korean, and Chinese bus models, often customized with local coachwork to handle steep mountain climbs.

Notable Units and Manufacturers:

• Unit #28 (“Blue Splendor”): A standout in the fleet, this unit features a Xiamen Golden Dragon body/chassis, manufactured by Trans-Oriental Motor Builders.
• Unit #25: A classic example of the company’s Japanese roots, utilizing a Pilipinas Hino Inc. chassis with the popular Grandeza body model.
• Unit #22 (Mitchacoy Express): This unit is a Zyle Daewoo BM090, a mid-sized bus known for its agility on narrow, winding roads.
• Unit #29: Another modern addition manufactured by Trans-Oriental Motor Builders, utilizing a Golden Dragon chassis.
• Unit #14: Frequently seen on the Baguio-Abra V.V. run, this unit is a staple of their daily long-haul operations.

Why Travelers Choose Mitchacoy

Operating in the Cordilleras requires more than just a bus; it requires a vehicle and a driver capable of handling sharp curves, steep inclines, and unpredictable weather. Mitchacoy has earned a reputation for:

1. Reliability: Maintaining consistent schedules even in the challenging terrain of the Halsema Highway and related provincial roads.
2. Accessibility: Providing affordable provincial rates for locals and tourists alike.
3. Local Expertise: Drivers who are well-versed in the specific demands of the Baguio-Abra route.

Bus Spotter’s Favorite

Mitchacoy has a dedicated following among Filipino bus enthusiasts (often seen on platforms like Flickr and Facebook groups like Team PBPA). Whether it’s the sleek “Blue Splendor” or the rugged Hino Grandeza units, these buses are frequently photographed by “spotters” at the Slaughterhouse Terminal and along the scenic highways of Benguet.

Whether you are a local heading home to Abra or a tourist looking to explore the northern highlands, Mitchacoy remains a steadfast choice for a safe and scenic journey.

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