MMDA to provide free transport to commuters on March 15

FILE PHOTO: Commuters on Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City cope with the nationwide strike staged by jeepney and UV Express drivers. —NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Monday said it will provide free transportation to commuters who will be affected by the transport strike set on March 15.

According to MMDA Chairman Romando Artes in a statement, a total of 20 vehicles — consisting of 11 commuter vans, six buses, and three military trucks — will be up for deployment during the Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (Piston)’s transport strike.

“Agency buses and trucks will be pre-positioned to provide free rides to commuters and transport them to the EDSA Bus Carousel. ‘Libreng Sakay’ signage will be attached to vehicles so that the public can easily identify them,” said Artes.

Major roads in Metro Manila that will be affected by the transport strike will also be monitored by the MMDA for quick dispatching of “Libreng Sakay” vehicles, said Artes.

Traffic personnel and Road Emergency Group members will also be deployed in various parts of Metro Manila to assist motorists and commuters affected by the transport strike.

“Our personnel are ordered to manage traffic and provide assistance to commuters during the transport strike,” said Artes.

Meanwhile, Artes said that the Pasig River Ferry Service, which is operational Mondays to Saturday, will also serve as an alternative transport to commuters.

This came after over two dozen transport groups agreed to hold a transport strike on Tuesday, March 15, to pressure the government into suspending the fuel excise amid successive hikes in pump prices.

Another round of fuel price increases is even set on Tuesday. About P12 more per liter for diesel, around P7 more for gasoline, and almost P10 more for kerosene.

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