LOCAL transport group Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston) Cebu has criticized the government’s "Libreng Sakay" program, calling it “unfair,” limited in reach, and only benefits a few.
Piston Cebu chairperson Greg Perez, in a press conference on Thursday, July 24, 2025, said only a few can benefit from the program, leaving most drivers and commuters behind.
“The real problem with the Libreng Sakay program is the government and its huge budget. What’s happening is unfair because only a few benefit -- not everyone. If we really look at it, it’s not genuine help for the transport sector or for the public, especially for the commuters,” said Perez.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) launched the “Libreng Sakay” program on Wednesday, July 23, covering the 01K route, or those modern public utility vehicles (MPUVs) plying the Urgello in Cebu City-Parkmall in Mandaue City route. It aims to cater to around 20,000 passengers daily.
Transportation Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon, who led the launching, said 100 MPUVs will provide free ride for passengers of the Urgello-Parkmall route during peak hours, or 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily, including holidays and weekends.
A budget of P150 million to P160 million has been allocated for the pilot program, which includes a P350,000 daily subsidy for operators.
Perez said the government’s free ride initiative on the 01K route is worsening the plight of traditional jeepney drivers, who are losing passengers and, consequently, their livelihood to the free modern units.
“What will happen to traditional drivers? Where will they earn a living when their income comes from commuters—and that’s what they rely on to survive?” said Perez.
Perez called on the government to overhaul the current system at the Land Transportation Office, stressing that assistance should be inclusive and benefit all drivers equally. (Charmaine Membreve, HNU Comm intern)