The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday revived the Metro Manila “Love Bus,” a fleet of zero-emission electric buses that will provide free rides to commuters along routes connecting parts of Pasig City and Quezon City.
First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos led the inauguration of the revived Love Bus at the MMDA headquarters in Pasig City, together with MMDA Chairman Don Artes, local officials, Metro Manila mayors and private-sector partners.
The six-unit fleet, which can carry up to 36 passengers per bus, was donated by Robinsons Malls, Megaworld, the City of Antipolo and the provincial government of Rizal, the MMDA said.
The buses will begin operating Thursday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and will offer free rides to commuters.
The eastbound route will run from Robinsons Galleria along Ortigas Avenue through Meralco Avenue, J. Vargas Avenue, Lanuza Avenue and C-5 before passing through Arcovia City, Bridgetowne and Opus Mall and ending at Eastwood City.
The westbound route will run from Eastwood City through C-5 and J. Vargas Avenue before returning to Robinsons Galleria along Ortigas Avenue.
The MMDA said waiting sheds are available at all stops along the routes.
Artes said the revived Love Bus is part of efforts to provide a more commuter-friendly and environmentally sustainable public transportation option.
The Love Bus was first introduced in the 1970s during the administration of then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and became a signature project of then-First Lady and Metro Manila governor Imelda Marcos.
The MMDA is studying proposals to expand the service, particularly along underserved routes, while ensuring that the free buses do not compete with existing public transport franchises.
Future routes being considered include Makati City Hall-Mandaluyong City Hall-Pasig City Hall, Estancia West Wing-Uptown Transport Terminal and Eastwood Mall-UP Diliman.
The agency is also in the process of purchasing additional Love Bus units to accommodate more passengers.
The revived fleet is among three projects inaugurated by the MMDA on Wednesday. The agency also unveiled an interactive gallery showcasing its institutional history, mandates and major programs, as well as a new annex building with additional facilities for employees and public service operations.
Artes said the projects reflect the MMDA’s commitment to building a more livable, resilient and sustainable Metro Manila.
