MANILA -- Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino is encouraging commuters to use the Pasig River Ferry System once it's operational. "Naghihirap tayo sa EDSA, 22 kilometers. Ang Pasig River is 25 kilometers, walang reblocking," Tolentino told ANC's "Headstart" on Wednesday. He said the first five ferry terminals will be in Pinagbuhatan, Pasig; Guadalupe, Makati; Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) - Sta. Mesa, Escolta, Manila; and Plaza Mexico, Manila. He said nine private companies are interested in operating the ferry system, but government will trim it down to three or four. "Hopefully, I'm keeping my fingers crossed, before the end of the month, we can take off," he said. Aside from serving as an alternative mode of transportation, the ferry system will also give passengers a historical tour of the city. "We intend to put up signages, 20 at least, of heritage historical sites. For instance, ito yung lugar na nagpahinga si President Quezon, dito tumira si Apolinario Mabini, even where Iglesia ni Cristo started. Para alam ng tao yung heritage and historical sites," he said. Tolentino said there are also plans for free shuttles that will pick up passengers going to Makati and Bonifacio Global City and bring them to the ferry. The MMDA chief said the proposed ferry fare will not exceed P50. The proposed operating hours will be from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. -- With ANC