Agusan del norte: The 'Libreng Sakay' (free ride) program has officially commenced in the municipalities and the lone city of Agusan del Norte, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on residents amidst escalating fuel prices and transportation costs.
According to Philippines News Agency, Agusan del Norte Representative Dale Corvera highlighted that the initiative is a collaborative effort involving the provincial government, the congressional district office, the city of Cabadbaran, and the 10 municipalities within Agusan del Norte. Corvera further explained that the program is set to run for two months, covering areas such as Cabadbaran City, Kitcharao, Jabonga, Santiago, Tubay, Magallanes, Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR), Buenavista, Nasipit, Carmen, and Las Nieves.
The free ride service operates during peak hours, from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. and then from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., although specific schedules may vary between towns. To facilitate this initiative, local government units (LGUs) have engaged tricycle and multicab drivers from legitimate local organizations, assigning them to provide services on designated days. Participating drivers are required to keep a record of the passengers served, with LGU personnel stationed at terminals to verify these records.
In terms of compensation, tricycle drivers receive a daily allocation of PHP600, while multicab drivers receive PHP1,000. These allocations are designed to cover fuel costs as well. The funding for this initiative was facilitated by Corvera's office, which contributed PHP44 million, while the provincial government, under the leadership of Governor Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante, contributed PHP22 million.
Residents and drivers alike have expressed their appreciation for the program. Teddy, a 49-year-old mechanic from Buenavista, commented on the financial relief it provides, stating that the savings on transportation costs will allow him to allocate more funds toward his family's needs. Similarly, Celso, a 32-year-old multicab driver, noted the benefit of having a stable income, especially in light of fluctuating fuel prices, emphasizing that both drivers and the riding public stand to gain from the program.
