Laguna: Laguna Governor Sol Aragones has ordered a free ride initiative Monday using government buses to ensure commuter mobility amid disruptions in jeepney operations provincewide.

According to Philippines News Agency, Provincial Information Officer Danilo Lucas announced that the 'Libreng Sakay' (Free Ride) program will run until April 15, covering major routes in areas including Los Ba±os, Bay, Victoria, Pila, Majayjay, Liliw, Magdalena, Famy, Paete, Kalayaan, Lumban, and Pagsanjan. Designated pick-up points are strategically placed at Olivarez Los Ba±os, Bay Arch, Bay District Hospital, Victoria Itik Park, Pila junctions, Pagsawitan, and Sta. Cruz Municipal Hall.

Several local government units (LGUs) have joined the effort, with municipalities such as Pagsanjan, Liliw, Magdalena, and Santa Cruz, along with Bi±an City, providing localized shuttles for stranded residents. This collaboration aims to alleviate the commuter challenges caused by the ongoing jeepney disruptions.

Amid rising fuel prices, jeepney drivers on the Santa Cruz and Lumban routes have adopted a rotation scheme, operating five units daily in alternating sets. This approach helps sustain their operations while complying with Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board warnings against strikes, which carry the penalty of franchise cancellation.

"The provincial shuttles bridge the gaps, keeping commuters moving," Lucas stated, emphasizing the importance of the initiative in maintaining commuter mobility during the disruptions.