The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) are currently working to finalize fuel subsidies for Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers once the crude oil price reaches 80 USD per barrel.

According to DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez, there are 2.5 billion pesos expected to be distributed once the crude price rises.

Secretary Lopez also noted that the LTFRB is evaluating the possibility of implementing a fare hike for PUVs. 

“Even without the problem now sa Middle East, pinag-aaralan na ng LTFRB yung possibility na magkaroon ng fare hike. Meron silang pending petition with that,” the Secretary said via an online-issued statement of DOTr

The fuel subsidy program is in accordance with the directive of President Bongbong Marcos Jr. to provide necessary assistance to PUV operators and drivers amid the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran.