Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 8) — Responding to the call to continue the free rides for students, the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) on Monday said it already lost “some ₱30 million” due to the program and continuing it may deprive the agency of much-needed funds for projects.
In a message to reporters, the LRTA said the Libreng Sakay Program was “intentionally designed” to cover only the First Quarter of the school year 2022 to 2023.
The program, which kicked off in August, ended on Nov. 5.
“The LRTA lost the opportunity to earn some ₱30 million as a result of the program, which amount could have been used to fund upgrading and rehabilitation projects for the LRT2 System,” the transportation agency wrote.
“The continued free ride would deprive LRTA needed funds,” it added.
The program was implemented to aid students who were struggling financially due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and amid the rising prices.
Starting Nov. 6, students can avail of their discounted fees provided they show school identification cards or proof of enrollment at the station’s Passenger Assistance Office or ticket booth.
CNN Philippines’ Paige Javier contributed to this report
