The LRT-2, MRT-3, and Philippine National Railways (PNR) will continue to provide Authorized Persons Outside of Residence (APORs) who are vaccinated against COVID-19 free rides on selected hours.

Department of Transporation (DOTr) Secretary Art Tugade said that during the limited continuation of the Free Rides for Vaccinated APORs Program, vaccinated APORs can ride LRT2 and PNR trains on off-peak hours.

Meanwhile, APORs can ride MRT-3 trains for free during the line’s peak hours.

Sec. Tugade clarified that the limited continuation of the Free Rides for Vaccinated APORs Program will only be during the enforcement of the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in Metro Manila which ends on Aug. 31.

“Any further extension of the free ride program for vaccinated APORs will be later re-evaluated depending on changes in the quarantine status of Metro Manila, and the operational requirements of the rail lines,” said Sec. Tugade.

“This free ride program aims to encourage more APORs to get vaccinated especially now that new and more transmissible variants of COVID-19 are emerging,” Tugade added.

Meanwhile, Sec. Tugade reiterated his appeal for APORs to strictly observe physical distancing and other health protocols now in effect to stem the spread of COVID-19 while inside public transport vehicles and stations.

Sec. Tugade said all trains will have transport marshals to enforce health protocols and to identify APORs. The Transport chief urges APORs to be ready to present documents to show that they are APORs.

Trains will also be disinfected after every loop.

Transport marshals inside the trains will also strictly enforce health and safety protocols which include the wearing of face shields and masks at all times; compliance to the “no talking and eating’ policy; ensuring adequate airflow and ventilation; and enforcement of social distancing, as well as proper disinfection and sanitation.

Passengers showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not