Manila: Public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers will begin receiving a PHP5,000 fuel subsidy next week as part of the government's effort to mitigate the effects of increased oil prices due to tensions in the Middle East. Transportation Secretary Giovanni 'Banoy' Lopez announced that the assistance was ordered by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to offer immediate relief to transport workers impacted by the fuel price surge.
According to Philippines News Agency, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto has brought together Metro Manila mayors to expedite the subsidy distribution process. The initial phase of the subsidy distribution will commence in Metro Manila on Tuesday, prioritizing tricycle drivers under local government jurisdiction. This will be followed by distribution to jeepney operators, drivers, and other transport sectors.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will manage the subsidy release through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian explained that drivers impacted by increasing fuel costs are now classified as individuals in crisis due to the adverse effects on their livelihood. Metro Manila mayors are tasked with providing lists of tricycle drivers via their local regulatory units to streamline the assistance process.
Gatchalian stated, "By Tuesday next week, sisimulan na natin iyong pagbigay ng tulong-pinansiyal na naghahalaga sa five thousand pesos sa mga apektadong sektor na nabanggit ho namin (we will start the distribution of financial assistance amounting to PHP5,000 to the affected sectors that we have mentioned)." The subsidy rollout will take place simultaneously in Metro Manila, with subsequent phases extending to other regions across the country.
The DSWD has allocated PHP30 billion from the AICS budget to maintain ongoing support should the global oil crisis persist. The government's decision to expedite the subsidy program follows a surge in global oil prices, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted supply routes and increased fuel costs worldwide.