Manila: Commuters in Metro Manila will enjoy free rides aboard electric buses by the end of April or early May as part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s Love Bus program.
According to Philippines News Agency, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chair Don Artes signed a partnership with Global Electric Transport (GET) Philippines on Tuesday for the Electric Love Bus program, as mentioned in a news release. The program is part of the Marcos administration's efforts to alleviate the burdens of daily commuters, particularly in metropolitan areas. Corporate sponsors will help sustain costs and expand free services to other cities in Metro Manila.
'Through this partnership, we are introducing fully electric buses that are cleaner, quieter, and more modern. These buses will help reduce pollution, ease congestion along key routes and provide a more comfortable riding experience for passengers,' Artes said during the ceremonial signing at the MMDA headquarters in Pasig. Under the partnership, the MMDA will manage the Love Bus routes, provide enforcement support, infrastructure, and alignment with public service goals.
On the other hand, GET Philippines will be the operator and maintenance provider for the 10 units. Each bus is capable of carrying 30 passengers and will make an average of five to six trips per day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. or 10 p.m., depending on passenger demand along select routes in Pasig City, Quezon City, and Mandaluyong City. As approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, the eastbound route will pass along Robinsons Galleria, Estancia Mall, MMDA, Arcovia, Opus Mall, Arcovia Mall, and Eastwood City.
On the other hand, the westbound route will have stops at Eastwood City, C5-Eastwood footbridge, C5-Green Meadows footbridge, C5-Green Meadows gate, Tiendesitas, C5-Julia Vargas Avenue, MMDA, Estancia Mall, and Robinsons Galleria. Last year, Marcos launched the program, providing free rides for the entire September using a fleet of 20 electric buses in Metro Manila. Pilot runs for the program were also held last year in Cebu City and Davao City.
