Leyte: Amid rising fuel prices, drivers and commuters in Leyte province are showing resilience as they continue to get around despite increasing costs. For many public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, the surge in fuel prices significantly cut into their already modest earnings. To cope, they have been forced to reduce trips, limit operations, and adjust daily routines just to break even.
According to Philippines News Agency, Edward Villante, 52, a jeepney driver for 13 years from Jaro, said rising fuel costs have compelled him to cut his trips to Tacloban City from twice daily to just once. Villante shared that his fuel expenses have more than doubled, with diesel prices now exceeding PHP100 per liter-about twice the pre-Middle East conflict price. His daily earnings have dropped from around PHP400 to PHP500 to just PHP200 to PHP300 after paying the PHP800 boundary to the jeepney owner. "I plan my trips carefully, usually traveling in the morning and making a return trip late in the afternoon during rush hours," Villante told the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday.
For 38-year-old Ace Miralles of Mayorga town, the rising cost of fuel has made it increasingly difficult to sustain daily operations. Miralles, who has been driving a jeepney for seven years, said his income has fallen from around PHP700 to PHP800 a day due to higher fuel expenses and fewer passengers. "There are days when I only earn PHP150, barely enough to cover food and basic needs. We continue working anyway," he said. Due to low passenger demand, Miralles added that fellow drivers are often forced to reduce their trips, sometimes ending as early as mid-afternoon, further reducing their income.
On the side of commuters, Graydelle Cahayag, a 21-year-old graduating communications student from Tolosa, said rising fares have strained her daily budget. She commutes to Leyte Normal University and noted that van fares that previously ranged from PHP50 to PHP70 have increased by about PHP10 per trip. "It's about PHP60 to get to school and PHP80 for the return trip. It's very challenging, but I have to travel daily to the city as I pursue my career in media," she said. She now opts for cheaper jeepney rides or walks short distances to cut costs. Despite the added expenses, skipping trips is not an option due to her internship, forcing her to adjust routes and spend more on transportation. Cahayag said she copes through strict budgeting and by seeking additional allowance, while also expressing concern for drivers who face even greater financial strain.
Meanwhile, the Department of Energy reported that the expected price increase starting Tuesday will raise gasoline by PHP6.47 per liter and diesel by PHP11.88. Although significant, the rise is less than the sharp surge from March 17 to 23, when gasoline rose PHP16.60 per liter and diesel PHP23.90.
