The Marcos administration has prepared its plan to support public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, farmers, and fisherfolk through a new fuel subsidy program. Its main goal being to mitigate the impact of rising oil prices.

According to a June 24 press release from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the national government has allocated PHP2.5 billion to cover fuel subsidies for drivers of PUVs, taxis, ride-hailing services, and delivery platforms. An additional PHP585 million has also been earmarked for the Department of Agriculture to assist farmers and fishers facing steep fuel cost increases .

Economic managers emphasize that timely distribution is critical to lessen the abrupt rise in fuel prices. The plan aims not only to help drivers maintain crucial transportation services but also to support agricultural and fishery operations during this volatile period .

Complementing the PCO announcement, Senator Grace Poe called for swift action in a June 23 statement. She emphasized the need to accelerate the release of subsidies, stressing that “government intervention might be just as quick” as market-driven price hikes. 

Poe noted that funds allocated under the budget must translate into actual relief for PUV drivers, ride-hailing workers, and delivery couriers. She also highlighted the importance of supporting farmers and fishers with the PHP585 million from the agriculture budget. Speeding up paperwork will help prevent bureaucratic delays that could otherwise undermine the program’s effectiveness 

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Photo Credit: Presidential Communications Office