Commuters in Metro Manila will enjoy free rides starting April 15 as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board rolls out its service contracting program covering jeepneys and EDSA Carousel buses along major routes.
LTFRB chair Vigor Mendoza II said routes were selected based on commuter demand and connectivity, with nearly P1 billion allocated to support operations and ease the impact of rising fuel costs.
The program will also extend to key urban areas such as Davao City and Cagayan de Oro, targeting high-traffic corridors to improve mobility and reduce congestion.
Meanwhile, fuel subsidies and reduced tolls continue to assist public transport drivers, alongside local initiatives like increased daily pay for participating PUVs.
Additional cash aid for other sectors is still under discussion, while separate subsidy programs for farmers and fisherfolk are set to be released this month.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 8, 2026
