The Department of Transportation on Wednesday launched a free ride program from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. to assist commuters traveling during the Holy Week rush, as rising fuel prices continue to strain both drivers and passengers.

The initiative, carried out in coordination with several government agencies, follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure accessible transport during the Lenten break. Authorities said the program aims to ease the burden on commuters traveling to provinces or moving within Metro Manila for religious observances.

Routes covered include Philcoa to Cubao, Welcome Rotonda to Cubao, Lawton to Welcome Rotonda, Lawton to Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), Recto to Cubao, and Commonwealth to Fairview, including return trips.

The DOTr partnered with the Office of the President, Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, Department of Energy and Department of Environment and Natural Resources to implement the program.