Malaca±ang: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez confirmed that a public utility vehicle (PUV) fare hike is imminent, as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is expected to finalize its study on the fare increase amount within the week.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a press conference held in Malaca±ang, Lopez disclosed that the LTFRB is evaluating the fare hike for various PUV types. Initial recommendations from transport groups were dismissed to ensure comprehensive analysis before any implementation. Lopez emphasized the need for caution to avoid exacerbating existing issues while aiming to provide relief.
Additionally, Lopez announced the rollout of a PHP5,000 fuel subsidy for PUV drivers in Metro Manila, set to commence next week. The distribution will prioritize tricycle drivers, followed by those operating jeepneys, taxis, transport network vehicle services (TNVS), and buses.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has mandated a whole-of-government approach to prevent the situation from worsening. This directive has prompted collaborative efforts, including a recent meeting organized by the Office of the Executive Secretary.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and LTFRB will collaborate with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and local government units to facilitate fuel subsidy distribution and ensure beneficiary verification.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian assured that fuel subsidies will extend to PUV drivers in provinces outside Metro Manila. The initiative will commence in Metro Manila but will soon expand nationwide with the help of DSWD's extensive office network, enabling simultaneous payouts.
The fare hike and fuel subsidies are part of the government's strategy to address rising oil prices globally, attributed to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In response, President Marcos recently directed the government to adopt a four-day workweek and other energy-saving measures to curb the country's energy consumption.