PH government to roll out 10-day Libreng Sakay for ASEAN summit

The Philippine government is rolling out its 10-day Libreng Sakay or Free Ride Program on Nov. 5 in a bid to boost Filipino awareness concerning the upcoming 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits scheduled for Manila.

The Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Wednesday inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) solidifying the initiative, which is slated to last until Nov. 14, 2026. The program encompasses two routes—the Sucat to Baclaran and vice versa & SM Fairview to Buendia and vice versa—with service hours from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Bringing Summit Closer to Filipinos

The program will deploy 30 modern jeepneys, with each route allocated 15 vehicles per day. These modern jeepneys are covered with visuals of iconic Philippine attractions and experiences to enhance the profile of the regional event and showcase the nation’s tourism assets.

Libreng sakay para sa 49th ASEAN Summit

“We will bring the ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings closer to Filipinos, not only through promotions but, more importantly, through public service with the Libreng Sakay program,” DOT Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said. “The successful hosting of the regional gathering goes beyond high-level meetings, bilateral discussions, and official engagements. It is equally about ensuring that the benefits of this chairmanship are felt by our people, particularly through accessible, reliable, and convenient public transportation.”

In addition, DOT and DOTr are also exploring the possibility of applying a similar model to the Light Rail Transit System, she stated.

Declaring Holidays for Summit

The 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits will run from Nov. 10 to 12, with some related events extending until Nov. 15. The gatherings are expected to bring together leaders from South-east Asia and other countries.

PH government to roll out 10-day Libreng Sakay for ASEAN summit
Photo: The Star

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr previously designated Nov. 16 to 18 as special (non-working) days in the National Capital Region in preparation for the summit.

Airline Adjustments for Delegates

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has disclosed the cancellation or rescheduling of multiple domestic and international flights to and from Manila from Nov 14 to 18 due to the arrival of delegates for the 49th Asean Summit and Related Summits in Manila.

In an advisory published on its website on Oct 30, PAL indicated that impacted passengers would be informed via e-mail and SMS. They may also take advantage of free rebooking, a complete refund, or a transfer to a travel fund via the airline’s website.