MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is set to release a memorandum circular next week outlining proposed guidelines for a carpooling initiative in Metro Manila, as fuel prices continue to rise.
The proposal, presented Monday alongside the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and the Land Transportation Office, will still undergo consultations with transport stakeholders before finalization. MMDA Chairperson Romando Artes said the initiative aims to ease pressure on public transportation, noting that more Filipinos are opting to commute due to high fuel costs.
Based on initial MMDA data, traffic along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue has already decreased by around 30,000 vehicles daily. However, this has led to longer queues at MRT stations and bus carousels. “That’s why we can see the long lines at MRT, at the bus carousel, and we think this can help solve that,” Artes said, explaining that shared rides could reduce both road congestion and commuter demand.
Under the proposed guidelines, individuals or companies may enroll their vehicles in the program, provided they secure a special permit from the LTFRB and submit requirements such as a route plan, vehicle details, proof of ownership, and a passenger list or company certification. The carpooling initiative will operate as a point-to-point service, with drivers prohibited from picking up or dropping off passengers outside designated routes, and each vehicle limited to two trips per day—one in the morning and another in the evening.
Authorities emphasized that the initiative is not meant to compete with franchised public transport such as jeepneys, buses, and UV Express units. Instead, it will run on a nonprofit or cost-recovery basis, meaning drivers are not allowed to charge fares per passenger. However, compensation may be allowed under private agreements, such as between employers and employees, subject to review by the LTFRB.
“Hopefully, it won’t be for profit,” Artes said, adding that the program aims to help cover fuel and maintenance costs without being abused, as the government seeks solutions to rising fuel prices and ongoing transport challenges.
