The Love Bus returns in Makati

The iconic Love Bus has made a comeback ushering nostalgia to commuters of the metro public transport.

Lota Ledda, a commuter, said she was surprised to see the vehicle plying the roads of Makati.

"During that time yung bf (boyfriend) ko, ex-bf ko pinipick up niya ako and then we ride the Love Bus. That's the reason why alam mo na there’s a little fond memory about it. Yes, of course because this is the only airconditioned bus during that time and it was very comfortable," she said.

The Love Bus were introduced in several Metro Manila routes in the 1970s and were the only airconditioned buses during that time.  It stopped operation after several years as it was no longer profitable.

Misha Quimpo, Estate Development Manager of Circuit Makati, said, "Merong nostalgia, may naaalala tayo, may sarili tayong memories ng Love Bus."

The new Love Bus is electric and solar-powered. Compared to its predecessor, it is smaller and can carry up to 22 sitting passengers.

"Malaking tulong ito kasi walang emission, walang usok, pure electric," Jayson Cavallar, operations manager of Makati Loop Transport Corporation.

He said the minimum fare is pegged at P14.  Senior citizens, pregnant and persons with disability will pay a discounted fare of P11.50.

There are two units of the Love Bus are currently plying in Makati with limited routes and schedule.  The units will be increased to nine in October.—LDF, GMA Integrated News