PUV operators, drivers still getting LTFRB-7 fuel subsidy

CEBU, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in Central Visayas (LTFRB-7) continues the distribution of fuel subsidy checks to qualified public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers affected by the continuing increase in fuel prices.

According to LTFRB-7 in their Facebook post, subsidy checks were released to eligible operators of Public Utility Buses, Traditional Public Utility Jeepneys, Filcab units, Modern Utility Vehicles, and Tourist Utility Vehicles.

Meanwhile, payroll checks intended for qualified Modern Public Utility Jeepney drivers were distributed through five designated operators in accordance with the approved payout arrangement and program guidelines.

Under the payout mechanism, qualified operators received the fuel subsidy checks and are tasked with facilitating the distribution of the corresponding assistance to their authorized drivers following the prescribed guidelines.

The agency said the activity forms part of the government’s continuing efforts to provide financial relief and operational support to the public transportation sector amid rising fuel costs, while helping ensure the uninterrupted delivery of safe and reliable transport services for commuters.

Personnel from LTFRB-7 remained on-site throughout the activity to assist beneficiaries, facilitate coordination, and ensure an orderly and efficient distribution process.

LTFRB-7 Regional Director Abosamen Matuan said the agency remains committed to implementing programs that provide timely assistance and responsive public service to the transport sector.

The fuel subsidy program of the Marcos Jr. administration is a government assistance measure designed to help vulnerable sectors, especially PUV operators and drivers, cope with rising fuel prices and prevent transport disruptions.

Its main purpose is to cushion the impact of fuel price increases on PUV operators and drivers, who are among the most affected by global oil price fluctuations, while also stabilizing public transport operations by ensuring that drivers can continue operating even when fuel costs rise sharply.

The program likewise aims to prevent fare hikes or reduce the need for sudden increases that would burden commuters, support the livelihood continuity of transport workers whose income is directly tied to fuel costs, and maintain the mobility of the commuting public, particularly in urban and provincial routes dependent on jeepneys, buses, and other PUVs. — /BRP (FREEMAN)