THE National Government's service contracting program for a reliable and safe public transportation has been extended, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) stated.

This came after President Rodrigo Duterte signed the extension of Republic Act 11494, otherwise known as Bayanihan to Recover as One.

Under this, the Service Contracting Program will be extended from December 19, 2020 until March 2021 or until the funds intended for the project are depleted.

"Alinsunod ang Service Contracting Program ng Bayanihan to Recover As One na layong masiguro na may maasahan at ligtas na pampublikong transportasyon para sa mga commuters," the DOTr said.

"Sa ilalim ng programa, libre din ang sakay para sa ating mga healthcare frontliners na patuloy na lumalaban sa coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic," the agency added.

Interested Public Utility Vehicle drivers may register under the program, according to the DOTr.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board will accommodate limited number of applicants to ensure that social distancing is observed.