P1.1-B fuel subsidy given to PUV drivers, operators

Traditional and modern jeepneys receive fuel subsidy as world oil prices surge. —LYN RILLON

MANILA, Philippines — A total of 190,130 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators have received P1.1-billion worth of fuel subsidies through the Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank) as of Nov. 9, according to the state-run bank.

Landbank said in a statement that the distribution of the dole out was part of its continued support to the transport sector amid rising fuel prices.

It added the effort was made under the Fuel Subsidy Program of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which is aimed to help owners and drivers of public utility jeepneys, buses, taxis, and transportation network vehicle services (TNVS), among other qualified beneficiaries.

On Sept. 8, the Department of Budget and Management said it had given the green light for the release of P3 billion in funds for the fuel subsidy kitty.

READ: LTFRB says P417-M worth of fuel subsidy already distributed

One-time aid

Through the fuel subsidy program, beneficiaries expect to receive a one-time aid of P1,000 to as much as P10,000 each.

Those driving or operating tricycles are entitled to a subsidy of P1,000 while those involved in delivery services shall get P1,200.

To receive P6,500 are those in school transport services, tourist transport services, TNVS, shuttle service taxis, Filcabs, taxis, minibuses, public utility buses, traditional utility vehicle express (UVE), and traditional public utility jeepneys (PUJ).

Meanwhile, those with modernized UVEs and modernized PUJ shall receive P10,000.

“Landbank is one with the national government in extending timely and responsive assistance to the local transport sector,” said the bank’s president and CEO Lynette Ortiz.

“Rest assured that we are ramping up the delivery of fuel subsidy to support PUV drivers and operators nationwide,” Ortiz added.

She said Landbank was closely coordinating with the DOTr and LTFRB for the immediate distribution of financial aid to a total of 1.36 million target beneficiaries under the fuel subsidy program.

LTFRB continuously submits lists of qualified beneficiaries to Landbank.