COMMUTERS using the Pasig River Ferry Service can now access free public Wi-Fi in ferry stations and boats after the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched the Free Public Internet Access Program on Thursday, May 14.
Communications Technology Secretary Henry Ruel Aguda said the initiative aims to improve both transportation and digital connectivity for commuters across Metro Manila.
Aguda said commuting in Metro Manila should no longer be limited to transportation alone, stressing that passengers must also remain connected while traveling.
He said free connectivity has already been introduced in the EDSA Bus Carousel, MRT, and other train lines before being expanded to the Pasig River Ferry Service.
Aguda said 12 ferry terminals and three ferry boats now have 24/7 free Wi-Fi access, which commuters can use for work, communication, and emergency situations.
“Now, it is no longer enough that you can just travel. We should have connected journeys,” Aguda said.
He added that the project forms part of the broader government effort to revive the Pasig River and improve mobility under the administration’s “Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli” program.
Aguda urged the public to use verified information online and avoid spreading fake news while taking advantage of the free internet service.
MMDA Chairman Don Artes said the free Wi-Fi project would serve as an added incentive for commuters to patronize the Pasig River Ferry, which remains free of charge.
Artes said the MMDA is continuously improving ferry stations and vessels, including the procurement of additional electric ferry boats developed by the University of the Philippines through the Department of Science and Technology.
He said the MMDA allocated P60 million for the construction of two more electric ferry boats, which are expected to be completed before the end of the year.
Artes said there are plans to build an additional ferry station behind the Makati City Hall after discussions with Mayor Nancy Binay.
He added that MMDA and Pasig City are working on a three-kilometer sidewalk improvement project requested by Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto, which will use nature-based solutions and may be inaugurated within a month.
Sotto welcomed the free Wi-Fi initiative, saying internet connectivity is now a necessity: “We need it for studying, we need it for work, and even for relaxation." The Pasig mayor also said stronger internet access would help push digital payment systems in public markets and other city services.
Sotto added that the city has seen noticeable improvements in the consistency of Pasig River Ferry operations in recent years, calling the river system an “alternative highway” for Metro Manila commuters. JAMES DANIEL DANIO
