Transport group MANIBELA announced on Friday, September 19, that it will provide free rides to protesters participating in the September 21 rallies at Luneta Park in Manila and the EDSA Shrine in Quezon City. The initiative aims to ensure broader participation in the twin demonstrations marking the 53rd anniversary of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s declaration of martial law.
According to the group, designated jeepneys will bear a sign on their windshields reading: “All roads lead to Luneta, LIBRENG SAKAY” along with the MANIBELA logo. These vehicles will pick up passengers from multiple points across Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.
Pickup Points and Departure Times
Within Metro Manila, pickup points include SM Fairview, Robinsons Novaliches, Ayala Malls Balintawak, Commonwealth Philcoa, Welcome Rotonda, LRT-2 Araneta-Cubao, Blumentritt Market, Divisoria, Punta Tulay, Alabang Starmall, Valenzuela People’s Park, Ayala Malls Feliz in Marikina, Monumento in Caloocan, Zapote Road in Las Piñas, Pasay’s Malibay, SM Bicutan in Parañaque, and Pasig Palengke, among others.
Outside the capital, rides will be available from Carmona, Biñan, Dasmariñas, Bacoor, Sta. Rosa, Cabuyao, Calamba, Antipolo, Taytay, Angono, and Binangonan.
MANIBELA said that jeepneys from Metro Manila will depart at 5:00 a.m., while those from outside the capital will leave as early as 4:00 a.m. to allow participants to arrive on time.
Focus on Major Protests
Two large rallies are set on Sunday, September 21:
- “Baha sa Luneta” at Rizal Park, starting 9:00 a.m.
- “Trillion Peso March” at the EDSA People Power Monument, beginning at 2:00 p.m.
Organizers said both events are meant to highlight continuing struggles against corruption, rising costs of living, and authoritarian tendencies in government.
Background
MANIBELA’s announcement came just a day after it ended its planned three-day transport strike early, following an appeal from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
The rallies coincide with the commemoration of the martial law declaration on September 21, 1972, a date that has long been marked by protests and calls for accountability. Civil society groups expect thousands to join the demonstrations, and MANIBELA’s support through free transport is seen as a boost to turnout.
By providing free rides, the transport group said it seeks to uphold its advocacy for the commuting public while amplifying calls for justice and reforms.