By Chito Chavez
With the chaotic situation on the streets on Day 1 of the general community quarantine (GCQ), the Quezon City government on Tuesday added two more routes to its “Libreng Sakay (Free Ride)’’ program to ease commuters’ inconvenience.
Mayor Joy Belmonte said the program is available to the general public and local residents who need to catch a ride going to and from permitted establishments such as workplaces.
“As we transitioned to GCQ, we have to assist the people to adjust to the new normal and that includes going back to work,” said Belmonte.
The city government has dedicated 14 buses that will ply two identified routes which have been prioritized due to their huge number of commuters.
They are:
Route 1: SM Fairview - Q. Avenue MRT
(via Commonwealth Ave)
Starting point: SM Fairview
Pick up points
- Atherton / FCM
- Dona Carmen / Don Fabian (Wilcon)
- Litex
- Commonwealth Market / Riverside
- Batasan
- Don Antonio
- Luzon / Tandang Sora (Puregold)
Drop off point: Q. Avenue MRT
Route 2: Nova Bayan - North Ave MRT
(via Quirino Highway - Mindanao Ave)
Starting point: Nova Bayan
Drop off point: North Ave MRT.
“We recognize that a lot of people, mostly workers, are already returning to their offices but transport vehicles are few. We have to help augment,” said Assistant City Administrator for Operations Alberto Kimpo.
Kimpo said the city government duly observes social distancing and other necessary protocols while the program is being implemented.
“Our seats have been installed with markers to keep passengers apart. The wearing of proper face masks will be strictly observed and is expected of our passengers,” he added.
The Libreng Sakay program for frontliners is still on-going.
Belmonte called on the public to fully abide by the guidelines set by the city government, saying their cooperation is instrumental in stopping the spread of COVID-19 in the city.
“Mahalaga ang kooperasyon ng bawat isa sa paglipat natin patungo sa GCQ. Kailangan natin ang tulong ng lahat para hindi na kumalat pa ang virus na ito (The cooperation of everyone is needed as we transition to GCQ. We need the help of everybody to prevent the spread of the virus),” said Belmonte. (Chito A. Chavez)