Yesterday, we asked you to learn to trust our government and to let the authorities do their job during the enhanced community quarantine all over Luzon. This appeal was prompted by the reckless calls among private individuals to provide free rides to healthcare workers who had no way of reaching hospitals due to the suspension of public transportation. Read our argument here as to why this is irresponsible and ultimately dangerous.

Anyway, we’re happy to report that our leaders are slowly but surely figuring things out. Starting today, March 18, free bus rides will be provided to all certified healthcare professionals. A total of 10 buses are being made available for now, and it’s reasonable to expect that this number will increase in the coming days as more kindhearted benefactors step forward.

Below are the three routes the above-mentioned buses will service.

Route 1: PITX (Quezon City General Hospital via Makati/Pasig)

• PITX
• Makati Medical Center
• St. Lukes Medical Center (BGC)
• Rizal Medical Center
• The Medical City (Ortigas)
• East Avenue Medical Center
• Philippine Heart Center
• Lung Center of the Philippines
• Quezon City General Hospital

Route 2: PITX (San Lazaro/Chinese General Hospital via Manila/Taft)

• PITX
• Pasay City General Hospital
• Adventist Medical Center (Manila)
• Philippine General Hospital
• Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center
• Manila Doctors Hospital
• University of Santo Tomas Hospital
• San Lazaro Hospital
• Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center
• Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center

Route 3: BFCT (San Lazaro Hospital via East Avenue/E. Rodriguez)

• BFCT
• Quirino Memorial Medical Center
• East Avenue Medical Center
• Philippine Heart Center
• Lung Center of the Philippines
• Providence Hospital
• Capitol Medical Center
• St. Lukes Medical Center (East Avenue)
• University of Santo Tomas Hospital
• San Lazaro Hospital

As you can see, this service is only for the National Capital Region for now. We expect the same to be rolled out across the rest of Luzon as we move along.

The Department of Transportation credits the Philippine Coast Guard, the Department of Public Works and Highways, San Agustin Transport and HM Transport for the free use of these buses. More of this dedicated transport service, please. Our doctors, nurses and caregivers need to reach their destination promptly and safely.

Salute, guys!