Marcos hikes fuel subsidy for PUV drivers to P12

MANILA, Philippines — Amid the rising costs of petroleum products, President Marcos has increased the fuel subsidy for drivers of public utility vehicles (PUV) from P10 to P12 per liter starting Aug. 15.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said yesterday that the move is in line with Marcos’ directive to increase the fuel discount for the mass transport sector.

The announcement came after Recto met with fellow government officials at Malacañang on Tuesday.

Present at the meeting were Secretaries Kim de Leon of budget, Vince Dizon of public works, Rex Gatchalian of social welfare, Giovanni Lopez of transportation, Sonny Angara of education and Jose Pujalte Jr. of health as well as Agriculture Undersecretary Roger Navarro.

“Once implemented, drivers will benefit from an additional P1,800 per week,” Recto said.

The government launched the P10-per-liter fuel subsidy last April, which has already helped over 93,000 PUV drivers.

The officials also discussed further strengthening of government initiatives to curb price increases and ensure support for sectors directly affected by the tensions in the Middle East.

Recto directed the Department of Social Welfare and Development to ensure that UPLIFT assistance reaches sectors in need, including farmers, fisherfolk, transport and construction workers and other low-income workers.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board earlier submitted its recommendation to Malacañang for a proposed P20-per-liter fuel subsidy.

Transport groups were also pushing for an interim fare increase for PUVs.

Marcos announced in his fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27 that the government has allotted over P60 billion until the end of the year for various programs that would help sectors severely affected by rising fuel prices.

The transport sector is severely affected by the crisis, according to the President.

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