Mandaue City to Launch Free 'Libreng Sakay' Bus Service for Students This February
Students in Mandaue City are set to enjoy a significant boost in their daily commute as the local government prepares to roll out a free transportation program starting in February 2026. This initiative, dubbed "libreng sakay," aims to provide a safe, convenient, and cost-effective way for students to travel to and from school, alleviating the financial burden and stress associated with daily travel.
Program Launch and Initial Resources
The free bus service is made possible through a generous donation from the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), which has provided two air-conditioned mini buses. Mayor Thadeo Jovito "Jonkie" Ouano emphasized that this program is designed to ease the challenges of navigating the city's bustling central areas, particularly for students who often face crowded and expensive transport options.
Initially, the service will operate on one or two strategic routes, a scaled-down version from the originally proposed six paths, due to the current availability of only two vehicles. The buses will commence and conclude their journeys at Mandaue City Hall, with six designated loading and unloading zones established along the routes to ensure order and efficiency.
Inclusive Access for Students and Guardians
While the primary focus is on students, Mayor Ouano has announced that guardians accompanying them will also be allowed to ride for free. This inclusive approach underscores the city's commitment to supporting families and enhancing safety. "Students are our priority, and their guardians will also be included," Ouano stated. "What matters is that we are able to help students and make their daily commute safer and more convenient."
Schedule Aligned with School Hours
To maximize utility, the bus schedule is carefully timed to coincide with peak school hours, operating Monday through Friday. The service will run during three key periods:
- Morning: Catering to students heading to their first classes.
- Midday: Assisting those with shifting schedules or lunch breaks.
- Late Afternoon: Specifically from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., to manage the dismissal rush and ensure safe travel home.
Trial Phase and Future Expansion Plans
City Administrator Gonzalo "Sally" Malig-on revealed that the February launch is a trial phase, serving as a pilot to refine the program before broader implementation. The city has allocated P40 million in the 2026 budget to purchase additional buses and expand the service in the future. For now, the local government will cover costs for drivers and fuel, as it navigates the new role of operating a bus service.
"We are fast-tracking this, but we are also careful because the City is not a bus operator," Malig-on explained. "After a month or two, we will be able to assess and decide how to proceed." This cautious approach aims to ensure the program's sustainability and effectiveness before scaling up.
The initiative reflects Mandaue City's proactive efforts to invest in education and community welfare, potentially setting a precedent for other local governments in the Philippines to follow.
