With these services seen as a platform to feature Philippine destinations, on top of serving commuters.
Through a partnership between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Transportation (DOTr), free jeepney rides have commenced in select areas in Metro Manila amid preparations for the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings.
The free rides have begun on November 5 (Thursday) following the ceremonial signing of an agreement that will mobilize a total of 30 modern jeepneys, operating for 10 days until November 14, 2026.
Spread across two major routes, commuters may avail of free roundtrip services from SM Fairview to Buendia (North Route) and from Sucat to Baclaran (South Route), with each service having a fleet of 15 vehicles.
Both will operate from 4:00 am to 10:00 pm, with the North route having eight one-way trips (or four round trips), while the South service has ten (or five round trips).
The DOT shared that these jeepneys are dressed up to “bear images of iconic Philippine tourist attractions, festivals, and experiences to maximize visibility of the regional event and promotion of the country’s tourism assets.”
The free rides target to benefit 12,500 daily passengers, according to data from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board. Moreover, the free ride will also benefit drivers and transport workers as they have assured income during the program’s implementation.
In a statement, Tourism Secretary Dita Angrara-Mathay, who was designated Vice Chair for Operations of the National Organizing Committee for the ASEAN Summit, said: “Ang utos po ng ating Pangulo (Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.), ay ang chairship po ng Pilipinas hindi lamang dapat nakikita o napapanood sa mga balita. Dapat maramdaman ng bawat Pilipino ang konkretong benepisyong hatid nito.”
“That is why we continue working closely with our partner government agencies to develop initiatives that showcase the best of the Philippines while creating meaningful experiences for our visitors, delegates, and stakeholders,” Angara-Mathay said.
For his part, DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark Steven C. Pastor stated, “ Kami po sa Kagawaran ay buong-buo ang suporta sa ating DOT dahil we are not just showcasing our country. We are showcasing our culture, and our tourism.”
The 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Manila, which will happen from November 16 to 18, 2026.
Several ASEAN-related meetings will happen in Metro Manila such as the 16th ASEAN Maritime Forum on November 17 and the 14th Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum on November 18.
Among the venues confirmed for this summit are the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) and the recently reopened Coconut Palace in Pasay City.
Under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the Philippines’ hosting affirms its commitment to leading ASEAN with unity, clarity, and purpose.
“It is a call to steer our region toward greater resilience, deeper connection, and meaningful change that places our people at the center of progress,” it added.
Moreover, the Chairship also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC).
