DOTr launches free ride program in Cebu, Davao

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has launched a free ride program in Cebu and Davao to ease commuters’ woes.

The Libreng Sakay kicked off in Davao City yesterday, marking the first time for the program to reach Mindanao, which lacks mobility infrastructure.

The program will be served by buses that will connect the village of Alejandra Navarro, formerly Lasang, and Roxas Avenue through Barangay Sasa.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the Libreng Sakay in Davao would benefit more than 6,000 people.

A round trip ticket between Alejandra Navarro and Roxas normally costs P100.

The DOTr allocated P70 million for the free ride program in Davao. The agency plans to sustain the program in the city until the end of the Marcos administration in 2028.

Earlier, the DOTr launched the Libreng Sakay in Cebu through buses that would ply between Urgello street in Cebu City and Parkmall in Mandaue City.

At least 20,000 people, mostly students who spend about P200 in weekly fare, are seen to benefit from the program.

Dizon said the DOTr is spending P125 million for the free ride program in Cebu.

He said the amount may increase once the agency mounts new routes such as Talisay to Cebu IT Park and back.

The Libreng Sakay operates daily, including weekends and holidays, from 6 to 9 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.

Officially named the Service Contracting Program (SCP), the Libreng Sakay also benefits drivers and bus operators, who no longer need to deal with the boundary system.

The SCP provides drivers a fixed income regardless of the number of passengers ferried by their buses.

Up to 400 drivers were hired to serve commuters through the Libreng Sakay in Cebu.