DOTr eyes P2.6B for transport sector aid

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will earmark P2.6 billion to aid the transport sector under the proposed Bayanihan 2 Act, which includes fuel subsidies for disenfranchised jeepney drivers and operators.

Transportation Undersecretary Garry De Guzman told congressmen on Tuesday the agency had developed various forms of subsidies to assist the road, aviation and maritime sectors.

Assistant Transportation Secretary Steven Pastor said the fuel subsidy would either be a one-time cash grant, or fuel vouchers equivalent to 30 percent of the daily fuel consumption of public utility vehicles (PUVs).

The DOTr estimated that bus operators each consume 36 liters of fuel a day, or P1152. Jeepneys, minibuses and UV express drivers use 12 liters a day, or P360.

Under the Bayanihan 2 Act, a total of P9.5 billion pesos will be earmarked for the transport sector.

De Guzman said the budget would be appropriated by the DOTr to three major projects: P2.6 billion for assistance to critically impacted PUVs, P5.6 billion for service contracting, and P1.3 billion for the creation of  644 kilometers of protected bicycle lanes all over Metro Manila.

—Mariejo S. Ramos

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