MANILA, Philippines – In celebration of Independence Day, commuters get to ride for free on the Metro Rail Transit and Light Rail Transit Lines 1 and 2 on June 12.

Officials of the overhead railway systems said that their Independence “gift” will be in effect during rush hour – from 7 to 9 a.m. and from 5 to 7 p.m. “This is the first time we will be giving free rides to commemorate Independence Day following top-level instructions,” MRT General Manager Roberto Lastimoso told the Inquirer (parent company of INQUIRER.net) over the phone.

“It is a way to celebrate and also offer some relief (from high prices of goods and services) to our commuters.” On the other hand, Jinky Jorgio, spokesperson of the Light Rail Transit Authority that manages the LRT Lines 1 and 2, said they offer free rides every year in celebration of the country’s independence.