PHILIPPINES EXPANDS PUV FUEL SUBSIDY, SEEKS COOPERATION AMID WEST ASIA CRISIS

MANILA, March 24 (Bernama-PNA) -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr on Tuesday announced the expansion of fuel subsidy distribution to more public utility vehicle (PUV) operators nationwide, as part of government efforts to cushion the impact of rising oil prices, Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported.

Speaking at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), Marcos said the subsidy programme, initially rolled out to bus operators in Metro Manila, will now cover additional PUV sectors across the country.

Each bus unit will receive PHP10,000 in fuel assistance, he said.

“To help ensure that our riding public will not be heavily burdened by fare increases, this is the government’s response,” the President said.

He added that the government is studying the wider use of digital payment systems to speed up the release of subsidies.

“We can do it via digital payment… It’s easier, it’s more practical. As much as possible, we will use digital payment,” he said.

He noted that traditional modes, such as cash and cheques, remain available for beneficiaries who prefer them.

Marcos also called for cooperation from transport operators and drivers to ensure the smooth implementation of the programme.

“With cooperation… we can make the system more convenient and ensure better service for the riding public,” he said.

The fuel subsidy is part of the administration’s broader measures to mitigate the effects of global oil price volatility amid tensions in West Asia.

-- BERNAMA-PNA