"We are appealing that the service contracting program be funded so that next year the Libreng Sakay program can continue.it was not included in the NEP," he said in mixed Filipino and English.
"Apparently, all it takes was a stroke of a pen. We are grateful that the lines for dialogue are now open," Mar Valbuena of Manibela seconded. "Certainly, there are still many ways for LTFRB to increase public transport supply. We plan to clearly present these recommendations through a position paper," added Valbuena.
Amid Metro Manila’s commuter crisis, legislators are looking at more rail lines to “move more people instead of cars,” but transport experts and advocates said rail lines aren’t the only way to do that especially in the middle of a crisis.
Though free rides on the EDSA Carousel has been a financial crutch for commuters amid the fuel crisis, commuter groups have sounded the alarm on the long lines forcing commuters to wait hours just to get a free ride.