Love Bus returns to Metro Manila with free rides

MANILA – The Love Bus project has returned to Metro Manila, offering free and more commuter-friendly rides as part of government’s efforts to provide a more convenient public transport system, Malacañang said on Friday.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced the relaunch of the iconic Love Bus amid President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s efforts to improve public transportation in Metro Manila.

Speaking to reporters at the Philippine Embassy in New Delhi, India, Castro said commuters may enjoy free rides aboard zero-emission electric buses.

“Ngayong taon, zero-emission electric buses na ang makikita sa daan na kayang magsakay ng 36 passengers bawat bus (This year, however, zero-emission electric buses will be deployed on the roads, each capable of carrying 36 passengers),” Castro said.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairperson Don Artes led the relaunch of the Love Bus on Wednesday.

Castro said passengers may avail themselves of free bus rides from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The buses travel from Robinsons Galleria at the Ortigas Business District and to several destinations, including the MMDA headquarters, Arcovia City, C-5 and Bridgetowne Estate in Pasig City, and Eastwood in Quezon City, and back.

“Muli, nais po nating bigyang-diin na si Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at First Lady Liza Marcos ay hindi matatapos sa pagbibigay ginhawa sa ating mga commuters. So, para sa nais makaramdam ng pagmamahal, sakay na (Again, we would like to emphasize that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos will continue working to provide relief to our commuters. So, if you want to feel the love, ride the bus),” Castro said.

First launched in the 1970s as a project of First Lady Imelda Marcos, the Love Bus was the country’s first air-conditioned bus service, offering a modern alternative to jeepneys and regular buses. (PNA)