The Manila Times
MANILA, Philippines—The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said that it has released more than P651 million in fuel subsidies to public transport operators and drivers nationwide. In a statement issued Monday, March 30, LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said the agency coordinated with regional offices and other government agencies to speed up the validation and payout process. Mendoza said minor problems were encountered during the initial distribution in Metro Manila, but these have since been addressed to improve subsequent payouts in the provinces. “We encountered several minor challenges, especially in Metro Manila, but these became lessons that helped improve the distribution in other areas,” he said. “The goal remains: a fast and efficient release of the fuel subsidy.” The subsidy program was implemented following the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to mitigate the impact of rising global oil prices amid tensions in the Middle East. The Department of Transportation allocated P2.4 billion for the program, with the LTFRB tasked to facilitate its rollout. Data from the LTFRB showed that as of March 17, P651,185,000 had been distributed. Metro Manila received the largest share at P181.278 million, followed by Calabarzon with P98.215 million and Central Luzon, P73.416 million. The fuel subsidy covers drivers and operators of traditional and modern jeepneys, UV Express units, buses including point-to-point services, transport network vehicle service (TNVS) partners, taxis, tricycles, and delivery services. Mendoza said the agency would continue to fast-track the remaining distribution while exploring additional forms of assistance for the transport sector. “The task is not yet done. There is still much to be done, but we assure the public that the government is working together to deliver this assistance as quickly as possible,” he said.
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