Ilocos norte: At least two coasters from the provincial government of Ilocos Norte are being prepared to ferry capitol employees who commute daily to work in the downtown area. The Metro Ilocos Norte Council, under the provincial government, is finalizing the headcount of those who will benefit from the initiative.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos stated in an interview that the province will offer free shuttle services to commuters, with the initial priority being provincial government employees. The provincial government is also considering free rides for students, particularly those from remote areas, in collaboration with local government units.
"This is very helpful to us who commute daily to work," said Irene Ringor, a resident of Barangay Tabug in Batac City. Ringor, who takes a tricycle to the nearest bus stop and then a bus to Laoag City, commutes for nearly an hour each way to reach her job in time for the provincial government's compressed four-day workweek, which operates from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. She mentioned that with her limited income as a rank-and-file employee, she spends PHP210 daily on transportation.
In addition to government employees, the provincial government is also considering free rides, or "Libreng Sakay," for students, particularly those from remote areas. This initiative is being considered in partnership with local government units. The provincial government has indicated that specific details of the free rides program will be announced soon.
