DAVAO CITY — The revived Service Contracting Program (SCP) of the Marcos administration has already served nearly 1.9 million passengers here since the Love Bus launch in August 2025. The program continues to provide free rides and fare cuts, easing the daily burden on thousands of working‑class commuters.
A Lifeline for Low‑Income Workers
Christian Godinez, a regular employee, said the savings from his free bus rides allow his family to stretch their food budget further. He explained that what low‑wage earners save on transportation can be redirected to buy essential household items. His experience mirrors that of millions of Dabawenyos who depend on affordable public transit.
The Love Bus operates under the Gross Service Contracting scheme, with the government fully covering the fare. LTFRB‑XI Regional Director Nonito Llanos confirmed that the free rides will continue under President Marcos’ directive to the Department of Transportation. The program aims to ensure safe, comfortable, and cost‑free travel for the commuting public.
Two Schemes, One Goal
In April 2026, the Net Service Contracting Program (NSCP) was launched across the Davao Region, complementing the Love Bus free rides. Under the NSCP, operators receive a fixed rate per kilometer—₱100 for buses, ₱40 for modern jeepneys, and ₱30 for traditional PUJs. In exchange, they provide commuters with a 20 percent fare discount on top of existing student, senior, and PWD discounts.
This means priority passengers such as students, seniors, and persons with disabilities enjoy a total fare reduction of 40 percent. The scheme helps families manage tight budgets while ensuring transport operators earn a stable, predictable income. Llanos stressed that the President wants the Love Bus and SCP to deliver safe, comfortable, and economical transportation for every Dabawenyo.
Drivers Gain Stable Income
Beyond passenger relief, the program replaces the old boundary system with guaranteed per‑kilometer payments, shielding drivers from fuel price volatility. President Marcos highlighted the SCP in his fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27, noting that operators and drivers receive extra income for every kilometer they serve. This dual benefit—affordable fares for passengers and assured earnings for drivers—makes the program a cornerstone of the government’s transport policy.
The SCP’s expansion to inter‑provincial routes has extended its reach from Davao City to Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental. With fuel costs continuing to fluctuate, the program provides a buffer that helps keep small transport businesses afloat. For many drivers, the fixed rate means they no longer need to worry about days when passenger volume drops.
Millions Served and Counting
Since its launch, the Love Bus in Davao City alone has carried approximately 1.89 million passengers as of January 2026. The program is also running in Metro Manila and Cebu, forming part of a nationwide push to make public transport more inclusive. The numbers reflect a deep, unmet need for affordable mobility in the country’s urban centers.
The sustained operation of both free‑ride and discounted‑fare schemes demonstrates the government’s commitment to mitigating the impact of rising living costs. For Davao City, the SCP is more than a transportation initiative; it is a daily economic relief measure that keeps millions of pesos in the pockets of ordinary families. The program continues to expand its reach, promising even greater benefits in the months ahead.
