Solid North Party-list Representative Ching Bernos has expressed support for reviving the government’s Libreng Sakay program to cushion commuters from a possible fare hike amid rising oil prices.
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez earlier directed road sector officials to utilize the ₱1-billion allocation under the 2026 General Appropriations Act for the Service Contracting Program (SCP), which allows contracts with public utility vehicle cooperatives and operators to provide free rides.
“The revival of the Libreng Sakay program will benefit vulnerable sectors such as students and daily wage earners. I hope that the government pushes through with it for the sake of the commuting public,” Bernos said.
She added: “Sa harap ng ganitong mga krisis, nararapat lamang na salagin ng pamahalaan ang mabigat na epekto upang maibsan ang alalahanin ng mga kababayan natin.”
Bernos also urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to expand the program beyond the EDSA Busway so more Filipinos can benefit.
She further encouraged local government units with sufficient resources to explore SCP arrangements with local transport providers.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is expected to issue its recommendation on a proposed fare increase later this week.