The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has allocated PHP 32.5 million funds for its own 'Libreng Sakay' program for 2023.
The OVP's presentation before the House appropriations panel on Wednesday showed that the PHP 32.5 million budget is divided for operation of satellite offices and purchase of various motor vehicles such as passenger van and bus under its free ride program.
The OVP launched its Libreng Sakay program in August together with the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
The DOTr also requested PHP 12 billion for its own Libreng Sakay program for 2023, but it was not granted by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
In a statement, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said the free ride program provided “transport relief” during the pandemic but its long-term viability cannot be argued due to constraints in the national budget.
“We recognize that budget allocation for ‘Libreng Sakay’ is within the prerogative of DBM (Department of Budget and Management) in accordance with government’s fiscal priorities and with due approval from Congress,” Bautista said.
However, the DOTr chief said he is "more than willing" to collaborate with the OVP to continue its free ride program launched on August 3 with five buses to help commuters in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao.
