308,275 commuters get free rides in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 308,275 commuters have benefited from the free jeepney ride program in Manila.

As part of the city government’s initiative, participating jeepney drivers received a daily pay of P3,000 from March 30 to 31.

Mayor Isko Moreno on Tuesday increased the cash aid by P500 following Monday’s fuel price hike.

Transport group Piston criticized the program, as participating drivers reportedly shouldered costs due to the inadequate diesel subsidy.

Based on Piston’s computation, jeepneys were required to complete three round trips daily, consuming 15 liters of diesel.

With diesel priced at P145 per liter, drivers need P2,175 daily to cover fuel costs, the group said.

“Service contracting and the free ride program do not solve the problem of high fuel prices,” Piston said.

The Move As One Coalition said the nationwide service contracting program “makes the situation even worse for drivers.”

“Because not all vehicles on a route are covered, commuters are forced to choose free rides while other drivers lose passengers and suffer further losses,” the group said. “Free rides are temporary and limited. It does not fix the system, but rather covers up its shortcomings.”

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez earlier said they are waiting for a special allotment release order to implement the program in other areas, for which P1 billion has been allotted.

Manila’s free ride program will resume on April 6 after the Holy Week break.   –  Josiah Antonio