Free rides are available from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM using two heavy passenger trooper trucks along MacArthur Highway from Sto. Tomas to Apalit, Pampanga, to assist workers affected by deep floods. This initiative comes as seasonal monsoon rains and Typhoon Dolphin continue to batter Luzon, leaving at least eight people dead and displacing more than 20,000 across the region.
Service Details and Route
The service operates along MacArthur Highway, covering the municipalities of Sto. Tomas, Minalin, San Simon, and Apalit, which are among the areas most affected by the floods. MacArthur Highway is a major road that traverses these towns, connecting them to other parts of Pampanga and beyond .
Each truck can accommodate up to 40 passengers, providing much-needed relief for workers and commuters who need to reach their workplaces despite the challenging conditions. The service prioritizes commuters and workers heading to their jobs, ensuring that those who need to travel for work can still do so safely.
A Community Response to the Flooding Crisis
The initiative responds directly to the severe weather conditions that have affected large parts of Luzon. Rescue teams have been deployed in various areas, with rubber boats used to evacuate residents as waters rise . This free ride program is a community-based effort to help alleviate the difficulties faced by workers who would otherwise struggle to commute during the flood crisis.
For those needing additional assistance, the Philippine Red Cross remains on standby. They can be reached through their emergency hotline at 143 or their landline at (02) 8790-2300.
