Agusan Norte’s ‘Libreng Sakay’ program eases transport burden amid fuel crisis
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Thousands of commuters and public transport drivers are benefitting from the provincial government’s ‘Libreng Sakay’ (free ride) program, which is being implemented across Agusan del Norte, providing much-needed relief amid rising fuel prices driven by ongoing global tensions.
The initiative delivers immediate assistance to daily commuters, particularly workers, students, and low-income families, by significantly reducing transportation expenses. It also supports drivers and operators through government subsidies that help sustain their livelihood despite continued fuel price volatility.
“This is a practical intervention that directly helps both our commuters and the transport sector. We want to make sure that no Agusanon is left behind during this challenging time,” said Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante.
Among the beneficiaries is Anabel, a state university student from Buenavista, who said the program eases her daily financial burden.
“The Libreng Sakay is a big help for me because my school is far, and transportation costs are high. This really eases my daily expenses going to school,” she said.
Amy, a mother of three and a private employee from the same town, echoed the same relief. “This is a big relief for my daily expenses. The Libreng Sakay program helps me save on transportation costs going to work and back home.”
The program is strictly implemented within Agusan del Norte, covering only its component city and municipalities. It ensures continued income for transport operators, including tricycle, ‘bao-bao’ (a three-wheeled vehicle), multicab, and motorcycle drivers who are properly identified, accredited, and contracted by local government units (LGUs). Only qualified and registered operators are allowed to participate to ensure safety, accountability, and orderly implementation.
“We must safeguard our drivers and passengers while taking practical steps to support our families during this challenging period,” said Agusan del Norte Congressional Representative Dale B. Corvera, emphasizing unified government action.
The Libreng Sakay program was launched on Monday, April 13, following the approval of Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution No. 148-2026, authored by Vice Governor Enrico R. Corvera, as a direct response to rising fuel costs linked to global developments.
With an initial budget of P44 million, equally shared by the provincial government and LGUs, the program is set to run for one to two months, with possible extension depending on global oil price movements.
It is a joint initiative of the provincial government, the congressional district office, and the 11 LGUs within Agusan del Norte, covering Cabadbaran City and the municipalities of Buenavista, Carmen, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Las Nieves, Magallanes, Nasipit, Remedios T. Romualdez, Santiago, and Tubay.
The program operates during peak hours, from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., ensuring accessibility for commuters going to work and school. In Cabadbaran City and Buenavista, at least 30 tricycles have been deployed, with similar arrangements implemented across other LGUs in Agusan del Norte.
Initial implementation showed a strong public reception. In Buenavista alone, around 600 commuters benefited during the launch, with expanded routes further improving mobility across communities in Agusan del Norte.
Buenavista Mayor Joselito T. Roble underscored the importance of collaboration in sustaining the initiative. “This program not only helps ease the burden of commuters but also supports our transport operators through subsidies from the LGU. It is a shared effort to ensure that our people continue to have access to affordable transportation.”
To ensure smooth implementation throughout the program duration, the provincial government is encouraging the public to report any concerns encountered during the program. Reports may be submitted through the official Facebook page of the province of Agusan del Norte, including complete details such as location, time, route, vehicle type, and other identifying information if available.
The provincial government assured that all reports will be treated with strict confidentiality. “We value the cooperation of our constituents in helping us ensure the proper and effective implementation of the Libreng Sakay program. Your feedback will help us improve and better serve the public.”
The initiative also aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s order to provide timely assistance to sectors affected by fuel price increases. In support, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has begun distributing P5,000 cash assistance to qualified transport operators and drivers.
Through coordinated efforts, the Libreng Sakay demonstrates how local governance in Agusan del Norte, alone, can proactively respond to economic challenges, delivering immediate relief, sustaining livelihoods, and ensuring accessible public transport for all Agusanons. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte
