MRT-3 to offer week-long free rides to veterans

MANILA – The Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) will offer free rides to veterans plus one companion from April 5 to 11 in celebration of the Philippine Veterans' Week and the 82nd Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on Tuesday.

In a statement on Wednesday, MRT-3 officer-in-charge, Assistant Secretary Jorjette Aquino said veterans must present a valid identification card from the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) to security personnel of any MRT-3 stations to avail of the offer.

"Libreng makakasakay ang mga beterano at kanilang kasama sa buong oras ng operasyon ng MRT-3 sa nabanggit na mga araw (Veterans and their companion will be able to take free rides during all operating hours of the MRT-3 during the said dates)," Aquino said.

The free rides, she said, aim to show the MRT-3's appreciation for the sacrifice of those who fought during World War II.

"Kaya naman po bilang tugon sa kahilingan ng Department of National Defense (DND), nais natin pagpugayan at pasalamatan ang ating mga beterano kahit sa simpleng paraan lamang (In response to a request from the DND, we wish to recognize and thank our veterans through this simple program)," she added.

In 1989, President Corazon Aquino declared April 5 to 11 every year as the Philippine Veterans Week to promote, preserve, and memorialize the principles, ideals, and deeds of veterans.

In addition to recognizing those who fought during World War 2, the week-long celebration also honors all who rendered honorable military service in defending the country. (PNA)