Some jeepney drivers in Quezon City have experienced relief after the government began implementing a fuel subsidy program for public transport operators.
According to reports, a jeepney driver was surprised to discover that a P10 per liter fuel subsidy was automatically deducted from his diesel payment at a gas station in La Loma.
The system works by entering the vehicle’s license plate into a LandBank application, which automatically verifies whether the unit is included in the list of beneficiaries.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said the initial rollout covers registered public utility jeepneys and UV Express units, which may receive subsidies for up to 150 liters per week until July.
The LTFRB explained that this form of assistance is faster compared to reducing excise taxes, which is estimated to provide only around ₱1 per liter in diesel fuel relief.
Meanwhile, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the government is open to expanding the program if sufficient funds become available.
However, transport group Manibela remains unconvinced, calling instead for an actual rollback in fuel prices. The group argues that prices remain too high compared to the real cost of older oil inventories held by companies.
In response to the continued rise in fuel prices, the group said it will proceed with a planned transport strike from Wednesday (April 15) to Friday (April 17).
