The Philippine Department of Transportation (DOTr) has unveiled a special initiative offering complimentary train travel on Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) this coming Tuesday, December 30. This gesture coincides with the nation’s observance of Rizal Day, a regular public holiday dedicated to honoring Dr. Jose Rizal, the country’s revered national hero.
According to an official advisory released on the department’s Facebook page this Saturday, the no-fare service will be operational during two specific timeframes to accommodate the peak commuting periods: from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and again from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This arrangement provides a total of four hours of free transit, aiming to benefit a wide range of passengers during the holiday.
The commemoration holds profound historical significance. December 30 marks the 129th anniversary of Dr. Rizal’s execution at Bagumbayan, a site now famously known as Luneta or Rizal Park in Manila. His death during the Spanish colonial era cemented his status as a symbol of Philippine independence and national identity.
This public transportation incentive is designed not only to facilitate ease of travel for Metro Manila residents on a public holiday but also to encourage public reflection on the legacy and sacrifices of Dr. Rizal. The initiative represents a government effort to merge public service with cultural and historical remembrance, making the anniversary more accessible to the populace.