By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — As fuel prices continue to rise, cities across the Philippines are taking steps to alleviate the financial strain on commuters.
In Parañaque, Mayor Edwin Olivarez has launched the “Libreng Sakay” program, deploying 40 passenger jeepneys along major routes to provide free rides to the public.
The program aims to reduce fuel consumption and ease the daily struggles of commuters amid soaring fuel costs.
Similarly, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso has expanded his city’s “Libreng Sakay” program, allocating P20 million to provide financial relief to jeepney drivers, operators, and commuters.
The program guarantees drivers a daily income of P1,000, with the city government covering fuel costs and operator fees. Since its launch, the program has served over 503,060 passengers, with 1,052 jeepneys deployed across key routes in Manila.
Mayor Isko’s model has been praised for its effectiveness in providing immediate relief to commuters and supporting the transport sector.
The program’s success has led to an increase in daily assistance for drivers, from P3,500 to P4,000, following recent fuel price hikes.
The “Libreng Sakay” programs in Parañaque and Manila demonstrate the cities’ commitment to providing practical solutions to the fuel crisis.
By subsidizing transportation costs, the city governments aim to ease the burden on commuters and support local drivers and operators.
As the fuel crisis continues to affect daily life, it’s likely that more cities will follow suit and implement similar programs.
The success of these initiatives will depend on various factors, including funding, public participation, and the overall impact on the transport sector.
ia/xf
