The Department of Tourism (DOT) officially launched a new Love Bus route in Cebu City on Friday, bringing the popular free-ride program to the Visayas region. The initiative, led by DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, fulfills a key promise made by the President to expand the transportation project nationwide.
The launch event was attended by Secretary Frasco, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. They personally inspected the new Love Bus units, which are adorned with vibrant images showcasing Cebu’s top destinations, including its renowned beaches, dive sites, and cultural festivals.
“The Love Bus offers tourists a free and convenient way to explore our beautiful destinations,” Secretary Frasco said. “It’s a dynamic platform that promotes iconic Cebu landmarks like the Shrine of Lapu-Lapu and Magellan’s Cross, all while delivering on our Love the Philippines campaign.”
Secretary Dizon emphasized that the program provides direct relief to commuters, especially minimum-wage earners, who can save up to ₱60 daily on fares. “The President’s vision is to bring this project to all major cities across the country,” he stated, noting that the new Cebu route will offer free rides during peak weekday hours and all day on weekends and holidays. The DOTr has allocated an annual budget of around ₱125 million for the Cebu route alone.
To ensure the program’s long-term sustainability, Secretary Pangandaman confirmed that the DBM has earmarked ₱1.3 billion for 2026 to support the continued nationwide implementation of the Love Bus project, making it even easier for everyone to fall in love with the Philippines.
