BBM spends birthday launching new Love Bus, visiting hospital

President Marcos yesterday spent his 68th birthday in Valenzuela by reviving the iconic "Love Bus."

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First introduced in the 1970s by his mother, former first lady Imelda Marcos, the Love Bus will once again ply Metro Manila roads and provide free rides as part of the government's push for accessible, inclusive and safe public transport. It was among the promises Marcos made during his fourth State of the Nation Address in July.

"Support the new Love Bus to reduce fare costs, have some savings and reduce traffic and pollution. This is a huge help for our situation in Metro Manila. Sometimes, it takes time before buses arrive. Traffic is heavy and the movement is slow,” the President said in his remarks delivered at the Valenzuela Gateway Complex.

Marcos, joined by First Lady Liza Marcos and their son Joseph Simon, arrived at the launch aboard one of the new buses.

The new fleet of 20 electric Love Buses will provide persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens with free rides at all times.

Other commuters may ride for free during peak hours from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Marcos said he also plans to grant a 50 percent discount to students.

Each bus operates from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and can accommodate 20 seated passengers, 10 standing passengers and four wheelchairs. Units are equipped with ramps and accessibility features for PWDs.