Senator Bam Aquino called for fuel subsidies for transport workers and stronger anti corruption measures as the government studies responses to rising global oil prices that could affect drivers, commuters, and the cost of goods across the country.
Aquino urged national agencies to prepare immediate assistance for public utility vehicle drivers who are often the first sector to feel the impact of fuel price increases. Higher fuel costs directly reduce drivers’ daily earnings and can trigger fare pressure across the transport sector.
He pointed to the Pantawid Pasada Program, a government fuel subsidy mechanism that provides financial support to public utility vehicle drivers when the monthly average price of Dubai crude oil reaches 80 dollars per barrel. Aquino said the government must ensure the program can be activated quickly if global oil prices reach that threshold.
“Magbibigay ito ng agarang tulong sa ating mga tsuper na direktang naaapektuhan sa pagtaas ng presyo ng langis,” Aquino said.
Aquino also raised concerns about how potential tax relief measures on fuel could affect government revenue. He said stronger action against corruption could help recover public funds that may be used to sustain programs designed to cushion the impact of rising fuel costs.
“Kung palalakasin natin ang kampanya laban sa korapsyon, makakabawi tayo ng malaking halaga na maaaring ipantustos sa mga programang makakatulong sa mamamayan,” Aquino said.
The senator said rising oil prices have a ripple effect across the economy, particularly through transportation and logistics costs that influence food prices and other essential goods.
Aquino said government preparations must focus on protecting sectors that face the most immediate pressure from fuel price increases. He stressed that transport workers require timely support when operating costs surge, adding that subsidy programs must be ready for deployment once oil prices reach the level that activates government assistance.
