Recto backs Pasig River ferry revival

Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto supported yesterday a Department of Budget and Management (DBM)-led rehabilitation and privatization plan for the Pasig River ferry, saying “it is the best chance to rescue the service from the inaction of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).”

“I have always said that because the ferry system has been sunk by the DOTr’s disinterest, other agencies should bail it out. I am glad that Secretary Benjamin Diokno has put himself on the captain’s seat,” he said.

Recto cited two reasons why Diokno is the best person to lead the revival of the ferry service along “an underutilized nautical highway, which can ease land traffic in Metro Manila.”

“One, DBM has the money. Diokno is the guardian of the coffers. Two, he is the only Cabinet man whose office is literally beside the Pasig River. He can see and smell the river from his office. The solution to Manila’s traffic is outside his window,” he said.

Recto said the cost of reviving Pasig River as an alternative transportation in the metropolis is less expensive compared to land-based solutions such as trains and elevated expressways.

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