Lapu-Lapu City Introduces Free Ride Initiative to Alleviate Fuel Price Burden
In response to the escalating fuel prices, the Lapu-Lapu City Government has rolled out a "Libreng Sakay" program, offering free transportation for commuters during weekday evenings from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This initiative aims to mitigate the economic impact on residents and improve traffic flow in the city.
Mayor Chan Announces Program Details and Routes
Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan announced the program's implementation on Thursday, March 26, 2026, emphasizing that it will utilize existing coaster vehicles and remain in effect as long as necessary or until the current situation is resolved. The program is designed to provide immediate relief to commuters struggling with high transportation costs.
Two specific routes have been established to enhance connectivity and ease travel:
- Route 1: Runs from Mactan Economic Processing Zone 1 (MEPZ 1) to Barangay Buaya, passing through Mactan and Marigondon Crossing before returning.
- Route 2: Starts at Barangay Basak, proceeds to Marigondon Crossing, passes through Babag and Looc, heads to the City Public Market in Barangay Poblacion, and then returns.
Expansion to Talisay City and Proposed Fee Reductions
In a related move, Talisay City has also launched its own free ride service starting Monday, March 30, using one bus and two vans per route. To further assist drivers affected by high fuel prices, Mayor Chan has proposed a temporary reduction in terminal fees for public utility vehicles (PUVs).
In a press release, Chan stated, "In response to the continued increase in fuel prices, I am proposing a temporary reduction in terminal fees for our public utility vehicles to help ease the burden on our drivers." She added that this measure aims to lower operational costs and maintain affordable transportation for commuters.
The proposed fee reductions include:
- Van-for-hire: From P25 to P15
- Jeepney: From P20 to P10
- Multicab: From P10 to P5
Terminals affected are located in Barangays Basak, Pajac, Pajo, and Babag for public terminals, and Barangays Mactan and Basak for private terminals, as per the City Traffic Management System.
Funding and Future Plans
The City Council is expected to review this proposal during its regular session on Wednesday, April 1, with a target implementation within the same month. Additionally, the city government plans to provide fuel subsidies for tricycle drivers through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), extending local aid to sectors not covered by national programs, such as pumpboat operators and fishermen with motorized boats.
To fund these initiatives, Mayor Chan announced that the SadSad Festival under the annual Kadaugan sa Mactan will be canceled, with its budget reallocated to support affected operators and communities. This comprehensive approach underscores the city's commitment to addressing the broader economic challenges posed by rising fuel costs.
