The Marikina City government will deploy six point-to-point routes offering free rides to commuters as part of efforts to ease the burden of rising fuel costs.

Mayor Maan Teodoro announced the launch of the “libreng sakay” program, which will use eco-friendly, solar-powered electric jeepneys.

Teodoro said the initiative aims to provide commuters with an alternative mode of transportation while promoting sustainability. The vehicles are rechargeable and designed to reduce dependence on traditional fuel sources, he added.

Each unit can accommodate up to 24 passengers and will be deployed in key or strategic locations to be identified by the local government.

The mayor advised residents to monitor the city’s official public information pages for updates on the final routes and schedules of the free ride units.

The program comes as local governments explore measures to cushion the impact of the ongoing fuel crisis on daily commuters.