By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Commuters in Metro Manila got a much-needed reprieve Thursday as the government rolled out its “Libreng Sakay” initiative, providing free rides during a nationwide transport strike.
The service operated from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., covering major routes such as Philcoa to Cubao, Welcome Rotonda to Cubao, and Lawton to PITX.
Buses and other vehicles from the Office of the President, Department of Transportation, Department of Energy, Philippine Coast Guard, and Philippine National Police were deployed to ferry stranded passengers. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) also added shuttle services to help ease commuter congestion.
The strike comes in protest of escalating fuel costs, with gasoline now priced at P12.90 per liter and diesel at P20.40 per liter. Authorities have urged transport groups to reconsider the strike and engage in dialogue to address their grievances.
The “Libreng Sakay” program aims to ease the burden on commuters, offering alternative routes while officials monitor traffic flow to ensure smooth travel across the city.
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