NWU provides free shuttle services for MMMH & MC frontliners

Northwestern University joins the nation in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as it provides shuttle services for the health workers of Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMH & MC), Batac City, Ilocos Norte. The free transport was offered to ensure the mobility of the medical frontliners in fulfilling their significant functions amid the crisis.

University President Atty. Ferdinand S. Nicolas responded without hesitation to the request of the hospital, and coordinated with PPDO Director Nelson Alagao for volunteers among the university drivers. Nelson Piňera and Ely Cudal then expressed their willingness to send and fetch the frontline personnel to and from work.

Two NWU buses were utilized as service shuttles for doctors, nurses, and other members of the frontline workforce of MMMH & MC. The vehicles were deployed every 6 AM and 6 PM at the Provincial Capitol and San Nicolas Municipal Hall to ferry said passengers to the hospital, and vice versa.

The free ride operations started when public transportation in Ilocos Norte was cancelled after the Enhanced Community Quarantine was in effect, and continues as of this writing. The university assures that health protocols are being observed to protect both the drivers and their passengers.