Manila: Persons with disabilities (PWDs) will be able to enjoy free rides on the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) from July 17 to 23 as part of the celebration of National Disability Rights Week. The MRT-3 announced this initiative in a statement on Wednesday, highlighting a commitment to making transportation more accessible for PWDs.

According to Philippines News Agency, the MRT-3 stated that the free rides will be available during the hours of 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. throughout the designated week. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to reduce transportation costs for passengers while also honoring significant national events.

To benefit from the free rides, PWDs are required to present their PWD ID at the service gates to station personnel. This effort is part of a broader strategy by the government to support vulnerable groups, as evidenced by the recent increase in fare discounts for senior citizens and PWDs at MRT-3, Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), and LRT-2. The fare discount has been increased from 20 percent to 50 percent.

In addition to the benefits for PWDs and senior citizens, the government has also expanded support to students. In June, President Marcos ordered a 50 percent fare discount for students across the three railway systems to alleviate the financial burden on students and their families.