More than 3.1 million passengers have benefited from Davao City’s free Love Bus “Gugma Dabaw” service since the program’s routes began operations last year, according to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board 11 (LTFRB 11).
LTFRB 11 said the figures reflect the continued demand for accessible, safe, and reliable public transportation among Dabawenyos, particularly daily commuters who rely heavily on public transport.
The milestone comes as the Love Bus South route marks its first year of operations. The route connects the University of Mindanao (UM) Matina and Mintal and has provided free rides to 1,137,001 passengers from August 22, 2025, to August 22, 2026.
Meanwhile, the Lasang–Roxas via Sasa route, which started on July 24, 2025, recorded 1,997,738 passengers from its launch until August 22, 2026.
Together, the two routes have served a total of 3,134,739 passengers, highlighting the sustained use of free public transportation along key corridors in the city.
LTFRB 11 Regional Director Nonito A. Llanos III said the high ridership shows the importance of designing transportation programs around the needs of commuters.
“The first year of the Love Bus South route demonstrates what we can achieve when we continue to put the needs of our commuters at the heart of public service,” Llanos said.
He also expressed appreciation for the support of the national government and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in maintaining the program.
“We are grateful for the continued support of the national government and the DOTr in sustaining this program, and we remain committed to providing accessible and reliable transportation for every Dabawenyo,” he said.
The Love Bus operates daily, with scheduled trips from 6 to 9 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m., providing service during the city’s peak commuting hours.
LTFRB 11 said the program’s impact goes beyond the number of passengers served, as free rides help ease the daily transportation expenses of commuters while improving their access to schools, workplaces, businesses, and other destinations.
The Love Bus “Gugma Dabaw” Program forms part of government efforts to make public transportation more accessible and responsive to the needs of the riding public.
LTFRB 11 said it will continue working with the DOTr and other stakeholders to sustain the program and strengthen the delivery of safe, dependable, and commuter-centered transportation services in Davao City.
