AKBAYAN Partylist Rep. Perci Cendaña today welcomed the government’s announcement that it will provide a 50% fare discount to all LRT-2 and MRT-3 train commuters starting March 23, even as he still pushed for free train rides.
“The government’s discount is good, but the riding public needs free train rides. While we claim this as partial victory in our call for accessible and free public transportation, especially in times of crisis, we believe that the government can actually do more,” Cendaña said.
“Kung kaya magbigay ng malaking discount, lubos-lubusin na nila. Gawin na nilang libre ang train rides para hindi na makabawas pa ang pamasahe sa overall na gastusin ng mamamayan, lalo na at may krisis,” Cendaña added.
“The crisis is already at a point where bold and decisive solutions are needed, not half-hearted measures. Itrato natin itong parang may mahal tayo sa buhay na may malalim na karamdaman. Hindi ba gagawin natin ang lahat para mapagaling siya? This should be the standard of urgency and action our government must abide by in this very pressing crisis, Cendaña asserted.
Cendaña, who belongs to the “Akbayan Reform Bloc” in Congress, comprised of fellow Akbayan Representatives Chel Diokno, Dadah Kiram Ismula, and Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao, is pushing for a package of immediate and strategic measures to address the crisis.
Last Monday, Akbayan lawmakers in Congress voted to grant emergency powers to the president to suspend the fuel excise tax. They are also calling for expanded subsidies for public transport drivers, workers, fishers, and farmers, additional food support for indigent families, the passage of an emergency supplemental budget, and a comprehensive review of the country’s energy policies.
