By Lane Afable, News Editor
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced that it had fast-tracked the release of P2.49 billion to the fuel subsidy program of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
Another P18.65 billion was released to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to ensure continued employment of workers in the infrastructure sector and to support projects across the country.
An additional P324.36 million was also disbursed to the DPWH to settle prior obligations for foreign-assisted infrastructure projects, ensuring their timely completion.
“Every peso we release is meant to ease a burden, sustain a livelihood, or keep a service running for our people—especially at a time when global events beyond our control are affecting daily life here at home,” Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo said in a press release.
“At a time when global headwinds are pushing fuel prices up, it is critical that we step in where it matters most—supporting our drivers, protecting commuters, and ensuring that no Filipino is left to carry these challenges alone,” he added.
The DBM noted that the releases are not new or unplanned expenditures but are based on existing appropriations and previously approved allotments.
“For the fuel subsidy, this comes from existing unobligated allotments under last year’s budget.
“It is important to note that the fuel subsidy program is trigger-based—it can only be implemented once specific conditions are met, particularly when the average price of crude oil in the world market exceeds $80 per barrel,” it said.
The releases for the DPWH correspond to existing appropriations, including payments for completed and delivered goods and services, and cash requirements for ongoing projects, the DBM said.
On Tuesday, the government began distributing a one-time cash assistance of P5,000 to 139,000 tricycle drivers in Metro Manila under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Program. The disbursement of P5,000 to PUV drivers under AICS is scheduled for April.
The Department of Agriculture said it will give P2,350 in aid to farmers, plus P3,000 in fuel subsidy. It will provide the same amount in aid to fishermen while the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will give them P3,000 in fuel subsidy.
In addition to the one-time cash relief, drivers are set to receive fuel subsidies from the DOTr starting end of March, but the amount will depend on operating costs.
The main public transport vehicles—jeepneys and buses—use diesel fuel, which has soared since the outbreak of the war in Iran.
