Isko Moreno announced the expansion of Manila’s free ride program, reinforcing support for jeepney drivers while easing daily commuting costs for thousands of residents amid escalating diesel prices.
In a direct message to the public, Moreno highlighted that diesel has surged to between ₱17 and ₱19 per liter, reducing drivers’ earnings. To address this, the city raised daily support per jeepney to a total of ₱4,000, including the existing ₱3,500 allocation for driver income, operator share, and fuel costs plus the additional ₱500.
“Sa patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng krudo, minabuti natin na dagdagan ng ₱500 ang suporta sa bawat jeepney para maprotektahan ang kita ng mga driver at operators. Ang programang libreng sakay ay para sa mga manggagawa, estudyante, senior citizen at sinumang dumadapo sa lungsod ng Maynila—isang maliit naming paraan para maibsan ang gastusin ng mamamayan habang pinapangalagaan ang kabuhayan ng ating mga driver”, Moreno said.
The initiative works by hiring private jeepneys and their drivers to provide free rides across Manila. Drivers and operators are directly compensated, allowing them to maintain operations despite volatile fuel costs. Moreno emphasized that the city carefully manages the program to guarantee fair net income for drivers while sustaining reliable service for commuters.
Participation has expanded, with 59 additional jeepneys joining from key routes such as Blumentritt and Balut. As of April 7, 2026, 1,118 jeepneys are active in the program, providing free rides to workers, students, senior citizens, and other residents traveling within and into Manila.
Ridership data reflect strong public uptake: the program served 129,665 passengers on the first day, 179,070 on the second, 194,325 on the third, and 213,599 on the fourth—totaling over 716,000 commuters in just four days. Moreno described these numbers as “record-breaking,” highlighting the essential role of free transport in mitigating daily expenses amid rising fuel and commodity prices.
Beyond commuter relief, the program helps circulate income locally. Drivers and operators spend their earnings on fuel, food, and household necessities, while commuters redirect savings to other essentials. Moreno also encouraged private sector and community support, noting that contributions—such as providing meals for drivers—amplify the program’s impact.
While the initiative costs roughly ₱4 million per day, city officials emphasized that its value lies in both easing commuter expenses and protecting driver livelihoods. Moreno assured residents that the city will continue monitoring fuel prices, adjusting support, and scaling operations as needed.
“Hangga’t kaya natin, gagawa po ako ng paraan upang matugunan ang pangangailangan ng ating mga driver at maproteksyunan ang kanilang kita, habang pinapadali ang libreng sakay sa ating mamamayan”.
Moreno concluded by praising the dedication of drivers and operators, urging residents to remain patient, support the program, and continue cooperating with the city as it navigates the economic challenges facing Manila.
