Mandaue City Expands Free Ride Program to Ease Commuter Burden
The Mandaue City Government is significantly expanding its Libreng Sakay Program, a free public transportation initiative, in response to the escalating burden of rising fuel prices on local commuters. Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano announced on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, that the city will introduce three additional routes under the program, which provides complimentary rides to residents.
New Routes and Operational Details
The expansion is scheduled to commence on Monday, March 30, 2026. The newly added routes will cover key areas: A. Del Rosario Street to Maguikay and back, KFC Maguikay to Savemore Canduman, and Savemore Canduman to the Mandaue City School for the Arts. Buses will operate exclusively during peak commuting hours, from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., aligning with the existing service schedule.
Mayor Ouano emphasized that this initiative aims to deliver immediate relief to residents grappling with mounting daily expenses. “We just want to provide a little relief to our constituents, especially now that fuel costs continue to rise,” he stated, highlighting the program's role in mitigating economic pressures.
Collaboration and Broader Strategy
The City Government is collaborating closely with several barangays to deploy the additional buses. Supportive barangays include Banilad, Canduman, Ibabao-Estancia, Maguikay, Tabok, Basak, and Pagsabungan. This expansion is part of a comprehensive plan funded by a P40 million budget allocated for bus rentals in 2026. Initially, authorities planned to gradually increase routes to six, building on the current Libreng Sakay service.
However, due to persistent fuel price hikes, which officials attribute to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the city has accelerated the rollout with assistance from partner barangays. Ouano confirmed that the procurement of extra buses is currently in progress. Additionally, the city is exploring leasing electric vehicles on a monthly basis as a more cost-efficient alternative, given their independence from fuel.
Program Background and Future Outlook
Under the Libreng Sakay Program, the City Government covers all fuel expenses and employs drivers and conductors. The program was first launched in February 2026, initially serving students with two buses operating between City Hall and the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue. These buses were donated by the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
With the addition of more buses, Mayor Ouano noted that the program will now extend beyond students to cater to a wider range of commuters across the city, enhancing accessibility and support for the community during challenging economic times.
