Manila: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced that the distribution of fuel subsidies is 'on the right track,' with approximately PHP651 million already disbursed to beneficiaries across the nation.
According to Philippines News Agency, the subsidy initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to expedite the release of fuel subsidies for public utility vehicles (PUVs) amid the ongoing national energy emergency triggered by the Middle East conflict. In a statement, LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza II emphasized that all regional directors have been instructed to continue validating beneficiaries in conjunction with other government agencies to ensure a 'fast, comfortable, and hassle-free' distribution process.
Mendoza assured the public that despite challenges, particularly in Metro Manila, the agency has learned valuable lessons to prevent similar issues in future distributions in provincial areas. Of the total funds released, the National Capital Region received the largest share at PHP181.28 million, followed by Calabarzon with PHP98.22 million, and Central Luzon with PHP73.42 million.
Mendoza acknowledged that 'there is a lot more to do,' but reassured the public that the government is actively working not only to expedite the fuel subsidy release but also to explore additional ways to support the PUV sector. Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez previously stated that around PHP2.4 billion had been allocated for the fuel subsidy distribution program.
The program encompasses drivers and operators of modern and traditional jeepneys, UV Express, passenger and P2P buses, transport network vehicle service partners, Filcabs, taxis, tricycles, and delivery services. Beyond the fuel subsidy, the LTFRB has advocated for a 50 percent reduction in PUV terminal rent to mitigate the impact of high fuel prices on the sector. Additionally, PUVs and cargo trucks currently receive tollway discounts through rebates, while commuters benefit from a 50 percent fare reduction on the Light Transit Line 2 and the Metro Rail Transit Line 3, among other measures aimed at alleviating the effects of the Middle East conflict.
