Almost P1 billion in fuel subsidy has been distributed to eligible drivers and operators of public utility vehicles (PUV) across the country, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said April 7.
Bulk of the distribution was in the National Capital Region with P200 million, LTFRB Central Office with P150 million, Calabarzon with P99 million, Central Visayas with almost P86 million, Central Luzon with P82 million, and Northern Mindanao with P69 million.
The distribution of P5,000 in cash assistance covered drivers and operators of modern and traditional jeepneys, UV Express, regular and P2P buses, TNVS partners, taxis, and tricycles. Delivery services and motorcycle taxis are also included in the list of the beneficiaries.
LTFRB chairperson, Atty. Vigor Mendoza, said they are continuously conducting adjustments on the distribution process to make the entire process fast and efficient, down to the municipal level.
“Our goal is to complete the entire distribution process the soonest possible time. Hindi puwedeng patagalin pa dahil patuloy na sumisipa pataas ang presyo ng gasolina at diesel,” Mendoza stressed in a statement.
He added that he already tasked regional directors to further intensify coordination with other government agencies and stakeholders for efficient and fast distribution process and their respective areas.
This is in line with the instruction of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure the proper distribution to all the rightful beneficiaries.
“In addition to that, the instruction is to make sure that no driver or operator is left behind. Lahat ng qualified beneficiaries ay mabibigyan and we will make sure that this is also scam-free to ensure that only rightful beneficiaries will receive the subsidy,” Mendoza said.
He added they are working with the transport sector themselves for the verification process.
“We assure our kababayan that the entire government is working together, not only to release the fuel subsidy in the soonest possible time, but in finding other ways to assist the PUV sector.” ||
