More than 100,000 commuters have already opted to use the ferry system as an alternative mode of transportation amid the heavy traffic besetting the streets and thoroughfares of Metro Manila, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said on Tuesday.
MMDA Chairman Francis N. Tolentino said data showed that the total ridership of the ferry system has reached 121, 839 as of August 26.
Tolentino also announced that a new commuter boat for its Pasig River Ferry System will be inaugurated on Wednesday to further improve the ferry service.
“All in all, we now have a total of 11 operational ferries in our fleet. These will service passengers along Pasig River, which stretches from Pinagbuhatan in Pasig City up to Plaza Mexico in Manila. I am optimistic that this will further boost commuter patronage,” Tolentino said.
The new fiberglass ferry has a maximum capacity of 45 passengers, including crew, and can travel up to 12 knots.
At present, the ferry service has 11 stations which include Pinagbuhatan and San Joaquin in Pasig City; Guadalupe and Valenzuela in Makati City; Hulo in Mandaluyong City; Polytechnic University of the Philippines Santa Mesa, Santa Ana, Lambingan, Lawton, Escolta and Plaza Mexico all in Manila. It is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from Mondays to Sundays.