Manila: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Friday assured senators that it would recommend to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. the release of fuel subsidies for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers amid rising pump prices. During a Senate hearing, DOTr Assistant Secretary Dioscoro Reyes stated that the agency would propose tapping the President's contingency fund to support drivers affected by higher fuel costs.

According to Philippines News Agency, Reyes emphasized that the recommendation would be submitted immediately after the hearing. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian raised concerns during the session about the impact of rising fuel prices on drivers' income, noting a significant rise in pump prices since February, while fares have remained unchanged. He remarked that if gasoline prices continue to rise without an adjustment in fares, drivers will face financial difficulties.

Gatchalian highlighted that the fuel subsidy program was initially designed to act as a 'shock absorber' during periods of high oil prices. He proposed that contingency funds be utilized while Congress addresses amendments to the current law that stipulates global oil prices must average USD80 per barrel for a month before subsidies can be released.

The DOTr is coordinating with the Department of Budget and Management and the Department of Finance to explore possible funding sources. It was noted that approximately PHP2.5 billion in fuel subsidy funds from the previous year remains available for use.