The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) received a ferry boat donation for its Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS).
MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim signed a deed of donation with Reghis Romero II, chairman of the board, Philippine Ecological Systems Corporation (Phileco), during the official turn-over of the new ferry boat at the Guadalupe Station in Makati City.
Lim expressed gratitude to Phileco for supporting the agency, citing that the new boat is a big help to provide alternative mode of transport to Metro Manila residents.
“The Pasig River Ferry System is preparing to operate soon which will be compliant to the physical distancing policy.”
The traffic chief said PRFS is preparing to operate soon which will be compliant to the physical distancing policy and other health protocols to ensure that the service will be safe for passengers.
“Once operational, our passengers would continue to enjoy the free rides,” said the traffic head.
He revealed that the agency plans to put up additional stations in Marikina City and even up to coastal towns of Laguna De Bay.
“We expect to receive more donations from different companies and on the part of MMDA, procure additional boats to help ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila,” said Lim.
Meanwhile, MMDA Deputy Chairman Frisco San Juan Jr., who heads the PRFS, said the M/B Phileco is a 55-seater ferry.
“The new vessel will be used in transporting passengers and ferry tours in coordination with the Department of Tourism.”
“The new vessel will be used in transporting passengers and ferry tours in coordination with the Department of Tourism,” said San Juan. He said that PRFS targets to expand operations in Laguna De Bay.
For his part, Romero said their company is pleased to support the Office of the President and MMDA’s initiative to make ferries an alternative mode of transportation amid traffic problems in Metro Manila.
“We are pleased to enjoy the Pasig River that can transport passengers from different places in Metro Manila. In response to the President’s (President Rodrigo Roa Duterte) and MMDA’s call (to help), we are donating a ferry boat. We take pride in being a part of MMDA PRFS project,” he said.