By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon announced Thursday, July plans to open more public transportation routes in Davao City and other major cities.
The DOTr secretary told the Davao media during the launching of the “Libreng Sakay (Free Ride)” program at Panacan Bus Stop in Bunawan District last Thursday .
Dizon said the program is aimed to ease the daily burden of commuters and fulfill the government’s directive to strengthen nationwide transport services.
He explained that the planned nationwide expansion is part of the agency’s broader push to improve accessibility and affordability in urban travel.
“We will try to open new routes. Our passengers suggested that more routes are needed here. We will add more routes in Davao City with other major cities,” Dizon said.
Dizon said they will have a free bus ride for the Cabaguio route soon. He added that the office is still consulting with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.
“Consultations are underway with the LTFRB to include Libreng Sakay (Free Ride) services in the Cabaguio route. We will add more,” the official said.
The Libreng Sakay program was formally launched in Cebu, then in Davao City, covering the route from Lasang to Roxas via Sasa. The route serves around 6,000 residents daily.
Dizon said the free ride in the area operates during peak hours from 6:00 to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., including weekends and holidays.
The official noted that the daily cost of commuting from Lasang to downtown Davao can reach P100 round-trip — a significant amount for regular workers and students.
“You can just imagine the savings this program can provide — P100 per day is a big help,” Dizon added, as the program ensures financial stability for drivers and operators under the service contracting scheme.
The department is also eyeing improvements to the Davao International Airport, with plans for future expansion efforts to enhance passenger experience and accommodate increasing demand.
Mindanao Development Authority Secretary Leo Tereso Magno, also present at the launching of the Libreng Sakay, thanked Dizon and President Marcos for their continued support here.
The MinDA official assured the public that these efforts will be sustained and expanded, as part of a larger vision to make public transportation more efficient, inclusive, and affordable for all Filipinos.
