Free Public Transportation Initiative Implemented in Cebu by DOTr
In a significant move to address rising transportation costs, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has launched the "Libreng Sakay" program in Cebu City. This initiative, directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aims to provide free rides on modern jeepneys during peak hours, easing the financial burden on commuters and offering steady income for drivers and operators.
The program operates on the Urgello to Park Mall route (Route 01K), covering one of the busiest areas in the tri-cities and including seven universities and four malls. Over 100 modern public utility vehicles, selected based on passenger and modern public utility jeepney demand, are used during peak hours. The free transport ride is available from 6 to 9 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m., including holidays and weekends, until 2028.
A budget of PHP 150 million to PHP 160 million has been allocated for the pilot of the program, with a daily subsidy of PHP 350,000 provided to operators. This initiative serves approximately 20,000 passengers daily, enabling an estimated savings of up to PHP 200 weekly per commuter.
Commuters have expressed gratitude for the DOTr's free ride initiative, stating it helps them save money daily. Trisha Marie Daquis, a college student, expressed relief as the "Libreng Sakay" would help her save money and lessen expenses. Eden Juario, a college graduate, stated that with the free ride, she can save money and travel home earlier. John Lie Poncardas, who works at a downtown mall, stated that the money he saves from the free ride would now go for his food.
The program's impact extends beyond commuters. It also aims to provide drivers and operators with steady income amid challenges posed by rising fuel prices and inflation, sustaining their livelihood while supporting public transit modernization.
Looking ahead, the DOTr is studying the possibility of expanding the program to add more routes, including the Talisay-to-IT Park route, planned for implementation by August 2025. After Cebu, the next "Libreng Sakay" program will be launched in Davao City, providing free rides on public utility buses along key routes.
In summary, the "Libreng Sakay" program in Cebu is a government initiative designed to alleviate transportation costs for thousands of commuters, support public transport drivers, and encourage a shift towards more sustainable and affordable public transportation through targeted free-ride services during peak hours on key routes, backed by a multi-year budget and planned expansion.
- The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is planning to expand the "Libreng Sakay" program, initially launched in Cebu, to Davao City, offering free rides on public utility buses.
- The "Libreng Sakay" program in Cebu, supported by a multi-year budget, not only aims to alleviate transportation costs for commuters but also provides a steady income for drivers and operators, particularly amid rising fuel prices and inflation.
- Eden Juario, a college graduate, stated that with the "Libreng Sakay" program, she can save money for other necessities and travel home earlier, while John Lie Poncardas, who works at a downtown mall, mentioned that the money he saves from the free ride would now go for his food.
