Manila: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has announced an extension of the PHP10 per liter fuel subsidy for passenger jeepneys and UV Express units for an additional month. This move comes as the agency evaluates the possibility of expanding the subsidy to include buses or alternatively, approving a fare hike for them.

According to Philippines News Agency, LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza II revealed in a radio interview that the fuel discount, originally set to expire on July 31, will now continue through August. This extension is part of the LTFRB's ongoing efforts to reach a conclusive decision regarding pending fare hike petitions.

Mendoza highlighted that buses are currently excluded from the fuel discount program. The LTFRB is considering two potential solutions for the bus sector: implementing a fare increase or extending the fuel subsidy to include buses. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the bus sector due to their exclusion from the discount.

He also noted the financial implications of expanding the fuel discount to buses, given the sector's size. Inclusion of buses in the program would significantly impact government funds. Mendoza expressed that while there are potential savings, this decision requires careful consideration.

The LTFRB is set to convene with Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez to discuss and finalize the approach for addressing the concerns of the bus sector. Meanwhile, no decision has been reached on proposals to increase the fuel subsidy to PHP15 or PHP20 per liter, as the current status will be maintained until a final decision is made.