The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is set to acquire four more boats for the Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS) fleet this year, with plans to add more in 2025 to accommodate additional passengers and speed up travel times.
The agency also plans to construct new stations.
This was revealed during a recent meeting between MMDA and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) officials in Pasig, where they discussed the maintenance and development program for the ferry system.
The PRFS currently has 10 boats that can accommodate varying passenger numbers. It runs between Pasig and Manila, with 11 stations — Pinagbuhatan, San Joaquin, and Maybunga in Pasig; Guadalupe and Valenzuela in Makati City; Hulo in Mandaluyong City, and Lambingan, Sta. Ana, PUP Sta. Mesa, Lawton and Escolta in Manila, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
At the meeting, the two agencies also discussed various assignments, including dredging in 12 ferry stations, dredging of the San Juan River and San Francisco River, repairs to broken pontoons, and the rehabilitation of the PUP station in Sta. Mesa.
Under the agreement signed in November 2023, the PCG is responsible for operating the boats and passenger safety, while the MMDA handles administrative and clerical operations.
