Senator Risa Hontiveros is pushing for a wider rollout of government aid to protect public transport drivers and keep daily commuting stable, as rising fuel prices continue to cut into drivers’ earnings.
On March 19, Hontiveros called on the government to expand emergency cash assistance so more public utility vehicle drivers can receive support. She said current programs do not cover everyone affected, especially those operating under transport cooperatives. These cooperatives group drivers into organized units, often as part of ongoing transport reforms, but many of their members are not fully included in subsidy programs.
“Dapat isama ang transport cooperatives sa emergency aid dahil sila rin ay direktang apektado ng pagtaas ng presyo ng krudo,” Hontiveros said.
Her proposal centers on adding both more drivers and transport cooperatives into the list of beneficiaries. This means more drivers could receive direct cash aid to help pay for fuel and daily operating costs. Without this support, drivers absorb the increase in fuel prices, which lowers their take-home income at the end of each day.
For the public, this has direct effects. When fuel costs rise and drivers earn less, some are forced to cut trips or reduce hours on the road. This can lead to fewer available rides, longer waiting times, and possible fare pressure as operators try to stay afloat. Stable support for drivers helps keep routes running and transport accessible.
Hontiveros said aid should reflect the actual number of drivers affected, not just a limited group. She pointed out that even those outside the lowest income categories are struggling with daily costs tied to fuel.
The push comes as transport groups continue to warn about shrinking earnings and rising expenses. By expanding aid coverage, Hontiveros aims to keep drivers on the road and prevent disruptions that could affect millions of commuters who rely on public transport every day.
