ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday rolled out a Libreng Sakay (free ride) program for passengers traveling between Zamboanga City and Lamitan City, Basilan, as the government moves to ensure safe and continuous sea travel following the suspension of Aleson Shipping Lines.
The free transport service is being conducted today, January 29, 2026, aboard the PCG vessel BRP Capones (MRRV-4404), prioritizing senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), pregnant women, and children. Up to 80 passengers are being accommodated through registration at Coast Guard Station Zamboanga, after which registered individuals are transported to the vessel via PCG rescue trucks. Passengers are required to present valid identification for verification.
The initiative comes amid disruptions in several key sea routes previously serviced by Aleson Shipping Lines, whose operations were suspended following the sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 earlier this week. In response, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed concerned agencies to immediately guarantee passenger safety and prevent transport paralysis, particularly in island and inter-island routes.
Acting on the directive, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) ordered the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to grant special permits to other shipping lines that have passed safety inspections, allowing them to temporarily operate on Aleson’s routes while the suspension remains in effect.
Among the routes cleared for alternative shipping lines are those from Zamboanga City to Isabela City (Basilan), Siasi and Jolo (Sulu), and Bongao (Tawi-Tawi). Special permits were also issued for the Pulauan–Dapitan City–Dumaguete City route, as well as Dumaguete City to Siquijor/Larena. MARINA is also expected to issue a permit within the day for regular operations on the Zamboanga–Lamitan route.
The PCG earlier assured the public that it stands ready to deploy additional vessels and extend free transport services should passenger demand exceed available commercial shipping capacity.
Authorities emphasized that all temporary operators must strictly comply with maritime safety standards, underscoring that passenger welfare remains the government’s top priority amid the ongoing adjustments in sea travel operations.