Cebu cities launch free transport to combat soaring fuel prices

Two cities in Cebu have rolled out free transport schemes to ease the burden of rising fuel costs. Lapu-Lapu City and Talisay City are now offering 'Libreng Sakay' (Free Ride) programmes for workers and students. The moves come as local governments adjust services to support residents facing higher travel expenses. Lapu-Lapu City launched its initiative first, providing free rides on weekdays between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Two main routes are covered: from Mepz 1 to Barangay Buaya, and from Barangay Basak to Marigondon Crossing. The city has also cut terminal fees for public transport drivers, reducing costs for vans-for-hire from ₱25 to ₱15, jeepneys from ₱20 to ₱10, and multicabs from ₱10 to ₱5. Additionally, the annual SadSad Festival was cancelled to redirect funds toward relief for drivers, pumpboat operators, and fisherfolk. The city is working with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to distribute fuel subsidies for tricycle drivers and has set up a local subsidy for boat operators and fisherfolk.

Talisay City's programme begins on March 30, operating one bus and two vans per route on weekdays only. The service will not run on weekends or holidays. Both cities have stated their free ride schemes will continue as long as the fuel crisis lasts. Nationwide, over 13,000 public transport vehicles—around 7,000 in Metro Manila and 6,000 in other cities—are now part of similar 'Libreng Sakay' programmes, according to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in March 2026.

The free transport services aim to reduce daily travel costs for thousands of commuters. Both cities have also introduced targeted financial support for transport workers and small-scale fishermen. Officials will monitor the situation to determine how long the programmes remain in place.