President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. launched the return of the iconic Love Bus, now powered by electric buses, offering free rides to commuters in Metro Manila. The program, introduced on the President’s 68th birthday on September 13, fulfills his State of the Nation Address (SONA) commitment to revive the popular 1970s transport service.
According to President Marcos, the Love Bus not only eases the daily burden of commuters but also promotes sustainability. “Malaking tulong ito sa pagbawas ng polusyon, sa paggastos ng krudo. Malaking tulong din ito sa mga PWD at senior citizens. Malapit na rin ang ilalabas para sa estudyante na 50% discount,” the President said during the launch.
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez added that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will expand the Love Bus Libreng Sakay program to other urban centers across the country. “Gaya ng sinabi ng Pangulo, dapat paginhawain natin ang araw-araw na biyahe ng ating mga komyuter,” Lopez emphasized.
For persons with disabilities (PWDs), the new service provides much-needed comfort and accessibility. Elizabeth, a commuter with a disability, shared, “Napakalaking tulong po ito kasi ilang beses nang hindi ako napasakay. Ngayon, mas komportable at ligtas ang biyahe namin.” Each electric bus is equipped with PWD-friendly features, including ramps for wheelchair access.
Currently, five e-buses are operating along three routes:
- Valenzuela Gate Complex (VGC) Terminal – DSWD
- Batasan Hills Loop
- VGC Terminal – Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX)
Each route is expected to serve up to 600 passengers daily.
Free rides are available to all passengers in Metro Manila throughout September. Starting October, free rides will remain all-day for PWDs and senior citizens registered with the Love Bus App. Other passengers will continue to enjoy free rides during peak hours from 6–9 a.m. and 5–8 p.m.
