Over P651 million in fuel subsidy released – LTFRB

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has released more than P651 million in fuel subsidies to public transport operators and drivers nationwide, saying the distribution is progressing as planned. In a statement on 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 while ensuring a smooth rollout. Mendoza acknowledged minor challenges encountered during the initial distribution in Metro Manila, but said these have since been addressed and used 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 earlier allocated P2.4 billion for the program, with the LTFRB tasked to facilitate its rollout even before fuel price pressures significantly affect the domestic market. 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 with 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. The LTFRB earlier also urged the operators of public utility vehicle terminals to reduce rental fees by at least 50 percent, while toll discounts for public transport units have likewise been implemented.

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