Iconic Love Bus returns as free PUVs in Cebu, Davao

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Friday rolled out the iconic Love Bus service in Metro Cebu and Davao City.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, along with Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, led the launch of the Love Bus service —which would be free of charge for commuters— in the two key cities.

During his fourth State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. said the iconic Love Bus would make a comeback, which will be free for commuters.

The Love Bus was introduced in several Metro Manila routes in the 1970s and was the only air-conditioned bus during that time. 

"The President wanted to revive Love Bus and make it better. It's now free. The President said we must do it for the entire country and it is symbolic that we are launching it in Visayas and Mindanao. The program is worth it because it is a direct benefit for the passengers," said Dizon.

In Metro Cebu, the Love Bus initiative operates with 44 operators and drivers with 11 buses plying the Talisay City/Anjo World to Cebu City and vice versa route from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The DOTr said about 2,462 commuters every day are expected to benefit from the free bus ride initiative.

In Davao City, the Love Bus program operates with 32 operators and eight bus units, which is expected to benefit 3,360 passengers everyday.

It will ply the UM Matina-Mintal route every 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.