2 Libreng Sakay operators face probe

CEBU, Philippines — Two operators participating in the government's Libreng Sakay program in Cebu City have been ordered to explain why they should not face sanctions after their modern jeepney units allegedly refused to pick up passengers during rush hour in Mabolo, drawing renewed scrutiny of service compliance among vehicles receiving government subsidies.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)-7 issued separate show cause orders against JP and Sons Transport Group Inc. and Aleja Fua Rent a Car Corp. following a public complaint and a viral video published by The Freeman showing commuters waiting at a designated stop while modern jeepneys operating on the 01K route bypassed them.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon directed the LTFRB to investigate the incident and hold accountable any operator found violating the rules of the government's free-ride program.

In the orders dated Oct. 31, LTFRB-7 said it took cognizance of the complaint and the viral report. The agency cited existing transport regulations prohibiting public utility vehicles from refusing to convey passengers without just cause.

"The act of refusing to convey passengers without just cause by a public utility vehicle, especially while participating in the government's Libreng Sakay (Free Ride) program, constitutes Refusal to Render Public Service / Refusal to Convey Passengers under existing LTFRB Rules and Regulations and Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01," the show cause orders stated.

Both operators were given five working days to submit written explanations and show why their Certificates of Public Convenience or Provisional Authorities should not be suspended or revoked and why administrative penalties should not be imposed.

The LTFRB also directed them to submit vehicle registration documents, operating permits, insurance records and employment records of the drivers involved.

Both operators and the concerned drivers were ordered to attend a formal hearing on Nov. 12, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the LTFRB-7 hearing room.

The board warned that failure to submit the required verified answer or appear at the hearing would be considered a waiver of their right to be heard and defend themselves, allowing the agency to resolve the case based on available records and evidence.

Commuters air grievances

The incident prompted commuters to share their experiences and raise concerns over the implementation of the Libreng Sakay program along the 01K route.

Among those who shared their experiences was Helen Nieves, who questioned the apparent inconsistency in how some 01K drivers accommodated passengers depending on whether the free-ride program was in effect.

"Bus stop or dili muhunong jud na sila kung dili libreng sakay pero asa mohunong kong ting libreng sakay na," Nieves said.

She also complained that some drivers allegedly left terminals before their vehicles were full when rides were free, but made passengers wait longer when regular fares applied.

Another commuter, Victor Guillarda, claimed that some passengers boarding at Parkmall were picked up at the terminal but were not allowed to occupy all available seats, while other passengers picked up along the route were charged fares.

"Kami nga gikan sa terminal mao ray free ambot nganu kaha," Guillarda said.

Another commenter also raised concerns over alleged fare overcharging, particularly involving students who were supposedly charged P25 instead of the P23 student fare.

The complaints have placed the implementation of the Libreng Sakay program along the 01K route under scrutiny, particularly whether participating operators are consistently providing the service expected by commuters.

The alleged violations have drawn particular concern because the vehicles involved were participating in Libreng Sakay, a government-funded initiative intended to ease commuters' transportation expenses while ensuring operators and drivers receive compensation through a service-contracting arrangement.

The Department of Transportation has repeatedly emphasized that operators receiving government payments under the scheme are expected to provide uninterrupted service and accommodate eligible passengers.

The two operators and their respective drivers have yet to publicly respond to the allegations. — (FREEMAN)