‘Libreng Sakay’ seen to boost Agusan Norte public transport, community resilience
By Nora L. Molde
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| LIBRENG SAKAY: Officials of the Agusan del Norte provincial government and local government units convene in a coordination meeting on April 6, 2026, to plan the implementation of the ‘Libreng Sakay’ program, which aims to ease the impact of rising fuel prices on commuters and transport operators. (Photo courtesy of the Province of Agusan del Norte) |
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Residents of Agusan del Norte will benefit from the ‘Libreng Sakay’ or free ride program as the provincial government steps up efforts to ease the impact of rising fuel prices.
Set to launch on Monday, April 13, the initiative is a joint effort of the provincial government, led by Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, in partnership with Congressional Representative Dale B. Corvera’s office and the local government units (LGUs) implementing the program. It will cover Cabadbaran City and the municipalities of Buenavista, Carmen, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Las Nieves, Magallanes, Nasipit, Remedios T. Romualdez, Santiago, and Tubay.
Designated routes will be served by tricycles operated by members of the Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations. Thirty tricycles in Cabadbaran City and another 30 in Buenavista will provide free rides on a scheduled basis in their respective areas, ensuring fair rotation among operators and wider coverage for passengers. Other LGUs will also identify and accredit tricycles in their areas. Operational costs will be subsidized by the participating LGUs.
The program has an initial estimated cost of P44 million, with P22 million funded by the provincial government and the remaining P22 million shared by the LGUs. It is set to run for one to two months, with the possibility of extension depending on global oil price trends.
“These interventions provide immediate support to vulnerable sectors, particularly public transport drivers and commuters, while mitigating the economic impact of global developments on local communities,” Governor Amante said during a coordination meeting on April 6.
The program also aligns with national directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to provide timely and responsive assistance to vulnerable sectors, particularly public transport drivers affected by fuel price volatility. Complementing the local initiative, the national government, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development has begun distributing cash assistance of P5,000 each to qualified transport operators and drivers. Distribution is scheduled in phases this April to ensure the timely release of financial aid.
Congressman Corvera emphasized the importance of unified leadership in public service. He also encouraged residents to plant crops and manage household expenses wisely to cope with rising costs. “We must safeguard our drivers and passengers while taking practical steps to support our families during this challenging period,” he said. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
