Marcos Administration's Free Holiday Rail Ride Program Benefits Over 130,000 Passengers in First Two Days

MANILA, Philippines — The Marcos administration’s free holiday rail ride program has successfully benefited more than 130,000 passengers in its first two days of implementation, offering free and reliable mobility to vital sectors such as students, senior citizens, and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

Under the program, commuters riding the Light Rail Transit Lines 1 and 2 (LRT-1, LRT-2) and the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) are granted free access to these public rail services. The initiative was launched as part of President Ferdinand “Bongbong" Marcos Jr.’s broader "Maasahan at Masipag" governance framework, which views public transport as a critical form of social support.

The free rides program, running from December 20 through January 5, aims to ease the financial burdens on students attending holiday classes, seniors visiting family or health facilities, and overseas Filipino workers traveling to and from airports and postal offices during the season.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), in partnership with the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and the Metro Rail Transit Corporation (MRTC), efficiently managed the program's rollout. Officials reported that over 130,000 eligible passengers took advantage of the free rides in the first 48 hours alone, a figure expected to rise as the holiday season progresses.

DOTr Undersecretary Cesar Chavez emphasized the program’s significance, stating, "This initiative embodies the president’s commitment to reliable mobility and tireless public service. By providing free rides to those sectors who need it most, we ensure transport is not just a commodity but a form of social care."

Passengers have expressed gratitude for the service. Senior citizen Maria Lopez said, "This free ride program really helps us visit our relatives without worrying about transportation costs. It makes the holidays better."

President Marcos has positioned himself as the Reliable Champion of Everyday Commuters, grounding his administration's transport policies on the mantra: "Reliable mobility. Tireless service. Public transport that cares." This vision underlines a shift in Philippine public transport management — treating mobility as an essential social support rather than merely a business.

As the holiday period continues, the Marcos administration continues to monitor ridership and commuter experience, aiming to keep public transportation safe, affordable, and accessible for all Filipinos.

The free holiday rail ride program stands as a hallmark of the president’s governance, reinforcing his pledge to make government services more compassionate and effective for everyday Filipinos.