MMDA extends free Pasig River ferry rides

METROPOLITAN Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Danilo Lim announced the extension of “Libreng Sakay” to the Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS) until February 29.

Lim said this was part of the Agency’s continued effort to support the public’s interest on the ferry service and further highlight its many benefits.

“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,” Lim said.

The free ride started when the Pasig River ferry service was relaunched in December last year and was supposed to end yesterday, January 31.

“For those who have not tried the PRFS yet, take this extension as a perfect opportunity to enjoy its benefits,” said Lim.

Since its relaunch, the PRFS continues to attract more patrons 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.

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 deputy head.

At present, the PRFS has seven boats 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,” the MMDA chairman added.

MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia said the relaunch of PRFS, aimed to help address the traffic problem in Metro Manila, 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.

Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, who is also very supportive of the project, 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: 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.