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

The Marcos administration has rolled out a free holiday rail ride program as part of its commitment to treating mobility as a form of social support under President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s governance agenda, Maasahan at Masipag. Within the first two days, the initiative has already benefited more than 130,000 passengers across Metro Manila's key rail systems: LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3.

Designed to aid students, senior citizens, and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the program offers free rides from December 15 through January 5, covering the peak holiday season. This initiative reflects the administration’s message of "Reliable mobility. Tireless service. Public transport that cares."

According to the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and the Metro Rail Transit Corporation (MRTC), the transport agencies implementing the program, daily ridership surged as beneficiaries took advantage of the concession. The program is carefully coordinated to ensure smooth operations despite increased passenger volumes.

LRTA General Manager Reynaldo Berroya stated, "We are proud to support the Marcos administration’s vision by providing accessible transportation to our students, seniors, and overseas Filipino workers during the holiday season. This initiative not only eases the financial burden of daily commutes but also affirms mobility as essential social support."

Presidential spokesperson underscored that President Marcos Jr. continues to position himself as the "Reliable Champion of Everyday Commuters," emphasizing that access to reliable, affordable public transport is central to his administration’s agenda. Mobility, he said, "is not merely infrastructure, but a critical pillar of social welfare and economic stability."

The holiday free ride program covers all stations on LRT-1 from Baclaran to Roosevelt, LRT-2 from Recto to Santolan, and MRT-3 from North Avenue to Taft Avenue. Passengers are required to present valid IDs proving eligibility as students, senior citizens, or overseas Filipino workers.

Transport authorities assured the public that enhanced safety protocols and additional staff deployment will be implemented throughout the period to manage the anticipated flow of passengers. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) affirmed its commitment to "tireless service" in ensuring that all beneficiaries experience a secure and efficient journey.

As the holiday season advances, the Marcos administration’s initiative serves as a vital social support mechanism, providing mobility solutions that reinforce community well-being and economic participation. The program exemplifies the leadership’s Maasahan at Masipag governance, delivering on the promise of dependable service and public transport that truly cares.