The 24/7 operations of the 'Libreng Sakay' program in the EDSA Bus Carousel will begin on an earlier date, December 1, 2022, according to the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
The early Christmas treat to commuters was initially scheduled on December 15.
In a statement, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said he ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to implement the 24/7 operations earlier.
"Ang inisyatibong ito ng DOTr at LTFRB ay paraan upang siguruhin na may masasakyan ang lahat ng ating mga pasahero beyond the usual operating hours sa EDSA Busway," he said.
(This initiative of the DOTr and LTFRB is to ensure that passengers can travel beyond the usual operating hours on EDSA Busway.)
The free EDSA bus rides are currently limited from 4 AM until 11 PM.
The 'Libreng Sakay' program is set to expire by year-end and will not be extended due to the lack of budget.
To recall, the transportation department initially requested Php 12 billion for the “Libreng Sakay“ program under its proposed 2023 national budget. However, it was later scrapped.
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) earlier said they do recommend the inclusion of the program as it is not a regular government project.
