MANILA, Philippines – Commuters in Metro Manila can save on transportation costs as the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Transportation (DOTr) launch free LRT-1 rides on November 9, 11, and 13, 2026, ahead of the Philippines’ hosting of the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings.

DOT, DOTr Offer Free LRT-1 Rides Ahead of 49th ASEAN Summit

The Libreng Sakay initiative is expected to benefit nearly 500,000 commuters traveling along the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), which connects Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) Station in Quezon City to Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque City.

Free LRT-1 Rides: Schedule and Coverage

Passengers can enjoy free rides on all 25 LRT-1 stations in both directions during the following peak-hour schedules:

• Morning: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM
• Afternoon: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Dates: November 9, 11, and 13, 2026

The initiative aims to ease daily transportation expenses while letting commuters experience the benefits of the country’s ASEAN Chairmanship.

Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the program reflects the government’s commitment to making the benefits of the ASEAN Chairship accessible to Filipinos.

She emphasized that providing free train rides would help reduce commuting expenses while raising public awareness of the Philippines’ role in hosting the regional summit.

LRT-1 Train Transformed Into a Tourism Showcase

Beyond providing free transportation, the DOT and DOTr are also bringing Philippine tourism closer to commuters.

One four-car LRT-1 trainset has been wrapped with colorful visuals celebrating the country’s diverse cultures and tourism destinations.

The tourism-themed train aims to introduce passengers to the Philippines’ destinations, cultural heritage, and travel experiences while they go about their daily routines.

Free Modern Jeepney Rides Across Metro Manila

The free LRT-1 rides complement another DOT-DOTr initiative featuring 30 modern jeepneys offering complimentary transportation from November 5 to 14, 2026.

The ASEAN-branded jeepneys operate along two major routes:

• SM Fairview to Buendia
• Sucat to Baclaran

Operating daily from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM, the modern jeepneys showcase Philippine destinations, festivals, and tourism experiences through their ASEAN-themed designs.

The program is expected to benefit approximately 12,500 commuters daily while supporting the livelihood of drivers and transport workers involved in the initiative.

ASEAN Promotions Reach Commuters Through Digital Videos

The Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship campaign is also reaching passengers through digital advertising and entertainment.

Three ASEAN-themed digital videos, featuring songs performed by Philippine tourism ambassadors BINI and SB19, will be shown across 60 digital screens in 10 LRT-1 stations.

The videos aim to promote the country’s ASEAN hosting and highlight the Philippines’ tourism offerings to commuters and visitors.

Making ASEAN Hosting More Accessible to Filipinos

The DOT and DOTr initiatives form part of the government’s preparations for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings, bringing the regional event closer to ordinary Filipinos through public transportation and tourism promotions.

For Metro Manila commuters, free LRT-1 rides and modern jeepney services offer a chance to save on daily travel expenses while experiencing the Philippines’ ASEAN-themed tourism campaign.

The programs also underscore how public transportation can promote Filipino culture, destinations, and hospitality during major international events.

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