The government is preparing to release fuel subsidies for public transport drivers following a directive from Bongbong Marcos to cushion the impact of rising oil prices.
The Department of Transportation said it is finalizing the distribution of financial assistance as fuel costs continue to climb in recent weeks, raising concerns among transport operators about increasing operating expenses. The program aims to provide temporary relief to public utility vehicle drivers and operators whose income is directly affected by fuel price hikes.
Transportation officials said the subsidy will be implemented in coordination with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, which will help identify qualified beneficiaries and oversee the release of the assistance. The agency maintains a database of registered public utility vehicles and drivers that can be used to facilitate the distribution of funds.
Fuel subsidies are typically activated when global oil prices rise sharply, placing pressure on transport operators who rely heavily on daily fuel consumption to sustain operations. Jeepney, bus, and other public transport drivers are among the sectors most vulnerable to sudden fuel price increases.
Authorities said the program is part of broader government efforts to mitigate the effects of volatile global oil markets on the transport sector and prevent sudden fare increases that could affect commuters.
The Department of Transportation said details of the subsidy release, including the amount and timeline of distribution, are still being finalized as officials monitor developments in international oil prices.
