MANILA, Philippines – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday, May 2, said it would extend free rides at the relaunched Pasig River Ferry.

The ferry service was relaunched on Monday, April 28. According to the MMDA, at least 5,000 commuters have been using the system with the Guadalupe, Makati-Escolta, Manila route as the most popular.

The MMDA said in addition to the free coffee, they will also be giving out free pan de sal to passegers at its terminals. 

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said extending free services would allow the MMDA and private operators to further asses the ferry system.

Various groups have been pushing for the revival of the Pasig river ferry system, which was shut down in 2011 due to losses. The current system is composed of 3 private companies under the supervision of the MMDA.

The Pasig rivery ferry now uses smaller boats, a lesson learned from its predecessor. According to Tolentino, boats then took too long to fill up, leading to losses.

The transportation and communications department, meanwhile, said it will take 2-3 months before they can come out with a final pricing scheme for the ferry service. Until then, the trips will cost between P25-50 (US$0.56-$1.12).

By next week, the MMDA will also launch an Android app so commuters can view travel schedules on the go. – Rappler.com