Sorsogon: The provincial government of Sorsogon has started providing fuel assistance to the transport sector after declaring a state of calamity in response to escalating oil prices.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initial allocation for this initiative is PHP5 million, drawn from the province's quick response fund. Salvador Mendoza, the Provincial Information Office chief, stated that this measure aims to alleviate the financial burden on those affected. Each tricycle operator is eligible to receive a full tank or up to seven liters of gasoline.

The assistance program targets approximately 13,000 motorized tricycle operator's permit (MTOP) holders across 14 towns and one city. To maintain order during distribution, fuel will be allocated on a scheduled basis per town. Beneficiaries will receive coupons or slips, which they can redeem for fuel at designated gasoline stations within their respective municipalities.

Only tricycles that are properly registered qualify for the aid to ensure accurate distribution. The province has declared a state of calamity due to the economic strain caused by the ongoing rise in oil prices, attributed to tensions in the Middle East.