DOTr rolls out free rides across Metro Manila as habagat disrupts commute

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 18, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is implementing free rides on select routes across Metro Manila on Tuesday, August 18, as heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon, or habagat, continue to affect the region.

The agency said the initiative is meant to assist commuters as inclement weather disrupts travel across the capital.

According to the DOTr, 43 vehicle assets will be deployed for the free ride program, which will run from 6AM to 8PM. The department said the service window may be extended depending on commuter demand.

Routes covered

The free rides will operate on a round-trip basis along the following routes:

• Quiapo to Fairview
• Lawton to PITX
• Divisoria to Cubao via Nagtahan
• Baclaran to Monumento via Taft
• Lawton to Muntinlupa
• Heritage to Market Market
• Monumento to PITX busway route
• Kalentong to Pasig
• Buendia to Makati Avenue
• Quiapo to Commonwealth
• Marikina to Cubao
• Sta. Mesa to Quezon Avenue via Araneta
• Baclaran to Sucat

The routes span major thoroughfares connecting the north and south of Metro Manila, as well as key transit points such as PITX (Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange), Lawton, Cubao, and Monumento.

Context

Free ride programs have become a recurring measure the DOTr deploys during periods of heavy rainfall, flooding, or transport disruptions, aimed at easing the burden on commuters who may otherwise face limited or costly transportation options when regular public transit is affected.

The DOTr said full details of the program, including specific boarding points and any updates to the schedule, are available through its official social media channels.