PAMPANGA - Vice Governor Dennis "Delta" Pineda has deployed a Libreng Sakay program offering free rides to commuters traveling between San Fernando and the flood-stricken municipality of Apalit, providing a vital lifeline for residents who need to reach work and essential destinations despite ongoing severe flooding. The service, operated using heavy passenger trooper trucks, runs in partnership with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and the Pampanga Provincial Police Office (PPO), ensuring that commuters have safe and accessible transportation options during this crisis. This initiative comes as Pampanga remains under a state of calamity, with over 875,000 people affected and 228 barangays across 16 localities submerged in floodwater due to relentless rains and the enhanced southwest monsoon.
Safe Travel Tips for Commuters
To ensure a safe and smooth boarding experience, commuters are advised to follow these safety tips. Stay visible by waiting at designated, elevated loading zones where the deployment trucks can easily spot you. Protect your gear by keeping umbrellas or raincoats handy, and seal electronics and wallets in waterproof bags. Most importantly, cooperate with PDRRMO personnel and police officers managing the crowds for a safer boarding process.
A Vital Service Amid the Crisis
The Libreng Sakay program provides a critical service for workers and residents who need to travel between San Fernando and Apalit despite the hazardous conditions. The route passes through areas that are among the hardest-hit by the floods, with the PDRRMO reporting that Macabebe, Guagua, and Candaba have each recorded 25 to 32 flooded barangays . The partnership with the PDRRMO and Pampanga PPO ensures that the service is well-coordinated with disaster response efforts, providing not just transportation but also a sense of security for commuters. By making these free rides available, Vice Governor Pineda is directly addressing the transportation challenges faced by residents, helping them reach their workplaces and access essential services during this challenging time.
