Free train rides to LGBT sector raise eyebrows

MANILA, Philippines — An aspect of the “12 Days of Christmas” free train ride program of the Department of Transportation has raised eyebrows, with observers saying the DOTr promotion may cause confusion.

“Ano sasabihin ko sa counter? Isa nga ticket para sa bading (What will I say at the counter? One ticket for a homosexual)?” wrote one netizen on the DOTr’s post about free rides on the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) as well as on Light Rail Transit Line 2 and LRT Line 1.

Another netizen wrote, “Free rides with judgment ang atake (their angle of attack requires judgment).”

Others said people would have to “come out of their closets” to avail themselves of the free rides. Still others opposed the scheme, saying it would only cause confusion.

DOTr acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez defended the program, saying people do not need to prove their sexual orientation for the free rides.

“There are no requirements to our passengers from the LGBTQIA+ community. They just have to get their free ticket. Go to the counter and say you are availing yourself of the free ride, no questions asked,” Lopez said.

He said the program is a way to promote inclusivity as he urged commuters encountering acts of discrimination to report to the DOTr.

Running from Dec. 15 until Christmas Day, the “12 Days of Christmas” promo offers free train rides on different days to sectors that include senior citizens, students, solo parents, LGBTQIA+, government employees, families, teachers and health workers.

“Since this is a Christmas gift, I told our LRT and MRT personnel that we don’t really need to be very strict in implementing the free rides. After all, this is a gift from our President,” Lopez said.