DOTr Launches ’12 Days of Christmas’ Free Rides: Schedule and Eligibility Explained

In a bid to spread holiday cheer and ease the financial burden on commuters, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has launched its “12 Days of Christmas” Libreng Sakay (Free Ride) program, offering complimentary rides on the MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2 lines from December 14 to December 25, 2025.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced the initiative following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to provide a “safe, convenient, and happy travel experience” for the public during the busy holiday season.

Who Rides Free and When?

The program assigns specific dates for different sectors of society to avail of the free rides. The full schedule is as follows:

• Dec. 14: Senior Citizens
• Dec. 15: Students
• Dec. 16: Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families
• Dec. 17: Teachers and Health Workers
• Dec. 18: Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and Male passengers
• Dec. 19: Government Employees
• Dec. 20: Female passengers
• Dec. 21: Families (regardless of the number of members)
• Dec. 22: Solo Parents and members of the LGBTQIA+ community
• Dec. 23: Private Sector Employees and Household Workers (Kasambahays)
• Dec. 24: Uniformed Personnel, Veterans, and their families
• Dec. 25: All commuters

Clarification on Eligibility and Requirements

Following the initial announcement, questions arose regarding how station personnel would verify the eligibility of certain groups, particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community scheduled for December 22. Some netizens expressed concern that the requirement might force individuals to publicly “out” themselves or face judgment at ticket counters.

Secretary Lopez moved to allay these fears, clarifying that the implementation will not be strict. “We don’t have to be very strict… This is a gift from our President,” Lopez stated.

He specifically addressed the concerns regarding the LGBTQIA+ sector, asserting a “no questions asked” policy. “There are no requirements to our passengers from the LGBTQIA+ community. They just have to get their free ticket,” he said. “Go to the counter and say you are availing yourself of the free ride… All you have to do is admit it, it’s okay with us.”

For other sectors, standard identification cards (IDs) may be requested:

• Seniors, Students, PWDs: Standard ID cards.
• Uniformed Personnel: ID or simply wearing their uniform.
• Private Employees/Government Workers: Company/Agency IDs.
• Household Helpers: Similar to the LGBTQIA+ sector, kasambahays may simply inform the tellers of their status without needing to present strict documentation.

Extended Operating Hours

To further accommodate the holiday rush, the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) also announced special operating schedules for LRT-1. Operating hours will be extended on December 20 and 23, with the last trains departing as late as 10:45 PM from Fernando Poe Jr. Station and 10:30 PM from Dr. Santos Station.

Shortened operating hours will be observed on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) and New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31), while regular holiday schedules will apply on December 25 and January 1.

The DOTr hopes this initiative will not only help commuters save on fare costs but also promote inclusivity and the spirit of giving during the Christmas season.