BACOLOD City — The city government has deployed free transportation services, or “libre sakay,” to assist commuters affected by the nationwide transport strike today, April 15.
Mayor Greg Gasataya announced that free rides will be provided in selected areas expected to be heavily impacted by the strike, ensuring residents can still travel safely to their destinations.
“We want to ensure the safety and convenience of our commuters,” the mayor said in a media interview on April 14, noting that large vehicles, including buses, will be deployed to accommodate as many passengers as possible.
The free rides will operate from 6 a.m. until evening, with an estimated 10 to 15 vehicles mobilized by the city government.
The initiative aims to minimize disruption, particularly for workers and students who rely on public transportation.
Gasataya also appealed to transport groups participating in the strike to keep their protests peaceful and orderly. While recognizing their right to express grievances, he emphasized the importance of maintaining calm and ensuring public safety.
Security measures are in place, with the Philippine National Police implementing an operational plan to monitor key areas and maintain peace throughout the day.
Government offices in Bacolod will remain open, with regular operations continuing despite the expected disruption, the mayor added.
The transport strike, organized by the No to Oil Price Hike Coalition, is projected to paralyze up to 100 percent of public transportation nationwide.
In Bacolod, four major rally sites have been identified: Bata Flyover, Magsaysay Flyover, Libertad, and Burgos.
Participating groups include PISTON, KADAMAY, Bayan, and other cause-oriented organizations.
Protest activities are expected to begin at 6 a.m., with participants set to gather in the afternoon at the Bacolod City Government Center replica along Gonzaga Street in the downtown area.
Transport groups are expected to resume operations by 5 p.m.
The strike is part of ongoing calls to address rising fuel costs, with demands including the removal of value-added tax (VAT) and excise taxes on petroleum products, repeal of the Oil Deregulation Law, and immediate fuel price rollbacks.
As the situation unfolds, the city government’s “libre sakay” program serves as a critical response to ensure mobility and safety for Bacolodnons amid the disruption./PN
