By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – Malacañang on Tuesday said the government is studying proposals to expand assistance for public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers, including a higher fuel subsidy and possible additional cash aid, as fuel prices remain elevated.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the recommendation submitted by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is being discussed by the Office of the Executive Secretary, the Department of Transportation (DOTr), and the government’s economic team.
“Sa ngayon ay pinag-uusapan po. Nakausap po natin mismo si Secretary Banoy (Lopez) at mayroon po siyang pakikipagpulong sa Office of the Executive Secretary para pag-usapan po ang mga detalye patungkol dito (The proposal is now under discussion. We have spoken with Secretary Giovannie Lopez, who will meet with the Office of the Executive Secretary to discuss the details),” Castro said.
She said the existing PHP10-per-liter fuel discount for PUV drivers has been extended until the end of August while the government continues to deliberate on the proposal.
“Pero sa ngayon ay patuloy pa rin po, extended po hanggang katapusan ng August ang 10-peso per liter fuel discount or subsidy (For now, the PHP10-per-liter fuel discount or subsidy has been extended until the end of August),” Castro said.
Castro said the Office of the Executive Secretary, the DOTr, and the economic team are working to finalize a comprehensive resolution on the proposed assistance package.
Asked whether the government is considering another round of cash assistance for PUV drivers, similar to the aid extended during the early phase of the Middle East crisis, Castro said all possible forms of assistance remain under review.
“Sa ngayon po ay pag-uusapan pa kung anong maaari pang maitulong sa ating mga kababayan dito sa transport industry (We are still discussing what additional assistance can be extended to our countrymen in the transport industry),” she said.
She added the government would release the details once discussions are completed.
The LTFRB earlier recommended increasing the fuel subsidy to PHP20 per liter for all PUV operators and drivers for one month to help cushion the impact of rising fuel costs. (PNA)
