Manila: The government is exploring targeted measures to assist middle-income earners facing the challenge of rising fuel and commodity prices, including the potential expansion of fuel discounts to private motorists.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a Palace briefing, Department of Finance (DOF) Undersecretary Karlo Fermin Adriano disclosed that proposals to benefit the middle class are currently under discussion within the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) committee, which is chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The UPLIFT Committee, established through Executive Order No. 110 last month, is responsible for leading the government's response to the ongoing energy emergency triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Its tasks include stabilizing fuel and food prices, supporting key sectors such as farmers, fisherfolk, and transport workers, and protecting consumers through targeted subsidies and interventions.

Adriano mentioned that the government is also considering extending fuel discounts, currently available to public utility vehicles (PUVs), to private motorists. This consideration arises from the recognition that the impact of rising fuel prices affects not only PUVs and UV Express vehicles. Marcos announced a PHP10 per liter fuel subsidy program for PUVs, which will last for up to three months. This program is set to launch initially in Metro Manila, starting along Commonwealth Avenue, and will later expand to major corridors, including Quezon Avenue, Espa±a, Zapote, E. Bonifacio, Rizal Avenue, and Marcos Highway. The subsidy will be implemented through accredited gasoline stations monitored by the Department of Energy to prevent misuse.

While the government continues to prioritize targeted subsidies for the most vulnerable, officials have clarified that broader interventions for other sectors are not excluded. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin emphasized that the approach aims to prevent broader economic disruption, noting that if the most affected are not prioritized, the situation may worsen and impact the entire economy. Officials also noted that existing measures, such as reduced port fees and the removal of certain logistics costs, are already contributing to easing prices of goods and services, indirectly benefiting middle-income households.