The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has announced that free rides on the Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS) will be extended for the entire month of February.
MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim said the extension of the “Libreng Sakay” until Februrary 29 is part of the agency’s continued effort to support the public’s interest on the ferry service and further highlight its many benefits.
“People are fully enjoying the benefits of the ferry service as a fast and convenient mode of transportation.”
“We are overwhelmed with the interest and clamor shown by the public and other government agencies’ support to the Pasig River Ferry project. People are fully enjoying the benefits of the ferry service as a fast and convenient mode of transportation,” said Lim.
The free ride offer started when the Pasig River ferry service was relaunched in December last year and was supposed to end January 31.
“For those who have not tried the PRFS yet, take this extension as a perfect opportunity to enjoy its benefits,” said the MMDA chief.
Since its relaunch, the PRFS continues to attract more passengers who prefer the water transportation service over public utility vehicles in going to their destinations in various parts of Metro Manila.
Based on records, the PRFS serves an average of 700-1,000 passengers a day.
Commuters are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Watch for the first sail of the 150-seater boat.”
Meanwhile, Lim said more improvements on the ferry’s facilities and operations are underway to better serve the public. Deputy Chairman and Undersecretary Frisco San Juan serves as head of the PRFS with Michael Salalima as its deputy head.
“Watch for the first sail of the 150-seater boat, the latest addition to the fleet of the PRFS. Several Metro Manila local chief executives and private entities have also committed to provide additional boats,” said Lim.
At present, the PRFS has seven ferries which can accommodate varying number of passengers.
“There are also plans to construct three more ferry stations, namely: Quinta Market in Manila, Circuit Makati in Makati, and Kalawaan in Pasig to further expand our operations,” he added.
Designed to help address the traffic problem in Metro Manila, the relaunch of PRFS has the backing of President Rodrigo Duterte who approved a proposal to institutionalize the Pasig River Ferry Convergence Program, which includes adding more stations for the ferry system, said MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia.
Senator Bong Go, who is also very supportive of the project, meanwhile urged concerned government agencies to ensure that the PRFS remains comfortable for commuters and improve the cleanliness of the river.
The ferry service runs from Pinagbuhatan in Pasig City to Escolta in Manila, with 11 stations along the route: Pinagbuhatan, San Joaquin and Maybunga in Pasig City; Guadalupe, Valenzuela in Makati City; Hulo in Mandaluyong City; and Lambingan, Sta. Ana, PUP, Lawton, Escolta in Manila City.