Go wants Pasig River ferry service convenient, comfortable

MANILA, Philippines — Government agencies concerned with upkeep of the newly reopened Pasig River ferry service should ensure that it remains convenient and comfortable for commuters, Sen. Christopher Go said yesterday.

He also asked the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to improve the cleanliness of the river to guarantee a safe and smooth journey for passengers.

“I implore agency heads to make sure that the ferry services will be convenient and comfortable for the people,” Go said.

After experiencing a decline in previous decades due to the pollution of the river, the ferry service was revived in 2014 to alleviate traffic congestion in Metro Manila.

In April 2018, President Duterte approved a proposal to institutionalize the Pasig River Ferry Convergence Program, which includes plans to build 17 more stations for the ferry system in the next four years, from the current 12 stations.

The transport service is presently operated by the MMDA while DPWH is responsible for dredging the river.

Go also suggested that ferry services be subsidized by the government for one year to provide more affordable fares for the commuters. The ferry service is offering free rides until Jan. 31.

The Department of Budget and Management agreed, saying that it will pool funds for the subsidy.

To ensure the cleanliness of the river, the Laguna Lake Development Authority was tasked to monitor discharges from nearby factories and issue violation receipts to offenders.