Quick Read
- The Philippine government released P2.5 billion to aid 245,000 drivers facing high fuel costs due to the US-Iran conflict.
- Bacolod City is scrambling to finalize and verify tricycle driver lists by March 25 to ensure eligibility for national subsidies.
- Subsidy amounts vary by transport sector, with some operators eligible for up to P10,000 while many drivers receive a flat P5,000.
BACOLOD CITY (Azat TV) – The Philippine government officially launched a nationwide fuel subsidy distribution on March 24, 2026, mobilizing P2.5 billion in financial aid to support more than 245,000 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators. The initiative comes as global oil prices continue to surge, a direct consequence of the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, which has placed significant economic pressure on domestic transport sectors.
Verification of Fuel Subsidy Eligibility in Bacolod City
In Bacolod City, local officials are working under a strict timeline to ensure transport workers receive their share of the aid. Mayor Greg Gasataya convened with the Tricycle Operators and Drivers’ Association (TODA) on Tuesday to initiate the compilation of a verified beneficiary database. The city government has set a deadline of 7 p.m. on March 25 for the submission of these member lists to the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD).
Mayor Gasataya emphasized that accuracy is paramount, urging TODA leadership to list only active drivers to prevent processing conflicts. While official data from the Business Permits and Licensing Office indicates 6,200 operating tricycles were recorded in 2025, only 2,600 had secured a mayor’s permit as of March 2026, creating a logistical challenge in identifying eligible recipients for the state-funded relief.
National Payout Structure and Sector Disparities
Nationally, the subsidy program features varying payout amounts based on transport categories. Operators of buses and modern UV Express units are eligible for up to P10,000, while many drivers across various sectors, including taxis and traditional jeepneys, are entitled to a standard P5,000 payment. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is managing a separate cash relief track, with specific dates assigned to different driver categories—beginning with TNVS drivers on March 24 and continuing through the week for jeepney and delivery service operators.
Logistical Hurdles for Tricycle and Delivery Drivers
While bus and taxi operators have clear pathways to receive funds via bank accounts or e-wallets, tricycle and delivery service providers face a slightly different timeline. According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the distribution for these sectors is scheduled to commence following the Holy Week break. Drivers participating in the DSWD-led relief program are required to present valid identification at designated payout sites, such as city sports complexes and municipal halls, to claim their assistance.
The disparity in subsidy amounts highlights a complex balancing act between supporting the modernization of the transport fleet and providing immediate relief to individual drivers who are currently struggling with the daily volatility of fuel costs.