By Ryan Louis Mantilla 

The "Libreng Sakay" program that has benefited commuters since the pandemic started would continue its operation in 2023, Senator Sonny Angara assured on Friday, December 30. 
 
The chairman of the Senate's Committee on Finance stated that the Libreng Sakay was included in the 2023 General Appropriations Act to ensure the program's continued implementation.
 
Although it benefited countless commuters, he pointed out that the Libreng Sakay or PUV Service Contracting program of the Department of Transportation was initially not funded under the National Expenditure Program or the version of the 2023 national budget Malacañang submitted to Congress.
 
A total of P2.16 billion was allocated for the PUV Service Contracting Program in the 2023 General Appropriations Act.
 
According to Angara, the program is yet another way to alleviate rising fuel, essential goods, and commodity costs.
 
"The Libreng Sakay program has benefited hundreds of thousands of our commuters, who have been clamoring for its continuation as a way to ease their burden from the rising costs of fuel and basic goods and commodities. These days every peso counts and whatever little savings that could be realized is highly appreciated," said Angara. 
 
Based on the Department of Budget and Management's (DBM) data, 628 buses were contracted to service the EDSA Busway Route, which could accommodate 50 million passengers. 
 
The Libreng Sakay program also aims to benefit Metro Manila and other parts of the country. 
 
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) stated that over 81 million passengers benefitted from the free ride program.