Metro Rail Transit-3 (MRT-3) commuters can enjoy free rides every Wednesday this August by presenting their National ID.
This was announced by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Wednesday, August 6.
The DOTr said the initiative covers all passengers who present their National ID, whether in physical card, printed paper, or digital format, at the service gates of MRT-3 stations during designated hours.
The “Libreng Sakay” runs every Wednesday of the month, August 6, 13, 20 and 27, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The DOTr said the program supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s efforts to promote the use of the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) for easier public and private transactions and to ensure more efficient and inclusive delivery of government services.
“Ang Libreng Sakay ay alinsunod sa layunin ni Pangulong Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. na mapalaganap ang paggamit ng National ID, para sa mas madaling mga transaksiyon, pampubliko man o pribado, at mas mabilis at inklusibong paghahatid ng mga serbisyong panlipunan,” the DOTr said.
To avail of the free ride, passengers must present any of the following at station security:
- The physical National ID card
- A printed paper version
- Or a digital copy of the National ID
Many riders welcomed the announcement, calling it “good news.”
“Wow!magandang balita nga,” a Facebook user said.
“Thank you DOTr MRT-3 sa libreng sakay,” another commented.
Others expressed hope that the free ride benefit would also cover rush hour and would be available in the Light Rail Transit.
“Dapat LRT din libre din,” a Facebook user wrote.
Last month, Marcos announced that senior citizens and persons with disabilities are now entitled to a 50% discount on fares across the three train lines: LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT.
Before this, students were already granted a 50% discount on train fares.
Additionally, the DOTr announced that commuters can now use digital wallets and contactless cards for a more convenient and faster way to pay for their rides.
