MMDA extends Pasig River ferry hours

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday announced it would extend the operating hours of the Pasig River ferry service starting June 1 to serve more passengers.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said the ferry boats will operate from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Off-peak hours or lunch break period, meanwhile, will be shortened from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to 12 noon to 2 p.m.

“The ferry service will operate the whole day as private boat operators will fully take over the project on June 1,” Tolentino said.

Starting on June 2, additional 20 percent discount will be given to loyal passengers who will purchase in advance at least 10 tickets. This is on top of the regular 20 percent discount given to senior citizens, students and persons with disabilities.

Tolentino said they hope to encourage the public to patronize the river ferry service.

Free ferry rides were given to passengers buying school supplies in Divisoria until yesterday.

The Pasig River ferry service has five stations from Pinagbuhatan in Pasig City to Plaza Mexico in Intramuros.

The MMDA said two more ferry stations in Sta. Ana, Manila and San Joaquin in Pasig City will be opened next month.