ILOILO — A municipality in Iloilo has started providing free transportation to residents as local authorities respond to the mounting impact of rising oil prices driven by ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The local government of Santa Barbara has introduced a “Libreng Sakay” initiative aimed at reducing commuting expenses, following recent fuel price increases that have pushed up transport fares and overall living costs nationwide.
Mayor Dennis S. Superficial formalized the program through Executive Order No. 24 signed on April 7, describing it as a temporary relief measure to support residents facing economic strain.
Situated about 10 to 12 kilometers (around 6 to 7.5 miles) from Iloilo City, Santa Barbara is home to many daily commuters who travel to the city for work and school. The trip usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, with commuters typically paying around P25 to reach Ungka—the boundary area between Iloilo City’s Jaro district and Pavia—and an additional P15 for another ride into the city proper, making daily travel increasingly costly.
The initiative comes as the Philippines faces renewed pressure from global oil market instability, with supply uncertainties linked to Middle East tensions fueling a fresh round of price hikes. Transport groups across the country have warned of possible fare increases, while households continue to grapple with rising expenses.
Local officials in Santa Barbara said higher fuel and commodity prices have made commuting more challenging, especially for workers, students, senior citizens, and other vulnerable groups. The program is intended to help residents maintain access to employment, education, healthcare, and other essential services.
Under the scheme, free rides will be available to bona fide residents starting April 8, running on weekdays only and subject to a first-come, first-served arrangement due to limited seating.
Morning trips are scheduled from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m., with pick-up at the municipal flagpole area and drop-offs at GT Mall Pavia and Ungka Terminal—key transport hubs for those heading to Iloilo City.
Afternoon trips will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., with pick-up in front of Coca-Cola Pavia and drop-offs at Bangga Dama, Bangga Osting, and Victory Plaza in Santa Barbara.
The executive order states that the program will remain in place until it is modified or lifted, depending on available funding and prevailing economic conditions.
As fuel prices are expected to remain unstable amid global tensions, initiatives like Santa Barbara’s “Libreng Sakay” highlight how local governments are stepping in to help ease the burden on ordinary Filipinos./PN
