Air travel costs will rise after the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) approved a sharp increase in fuel surcharges, citing sustained global oil price pressures linked to tensions in the Middle East.
The CAB raised fuel surcharges to Level 19 from Level 8, effective April 16 to 30.
Malacañang on Thursday said the government has not provided any subsidy for aviation fuel.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, citing the Department of Energy (DOE), said surcharge levels are set by the CAB, not airlines, and that no state subsidy currently exists.
Castro said the increase reflects prevailing market conditions. She added that the DOE did not provide further details.
Despite this, Castro assured that the government is working to maintain a stable jet fuel supply and prevent disruptions in petroleum availability.
She added that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would be informed of any major policy shifts affecting fuel supply and pricing.
“Lagi naman po na inuulat sa Pangulo ito at lahat po ng paraan ay ginagawa para hindi magkulang ang supply ng produktong petrolyo sa atin,” she said.
The adjustment will significantly increase travel costs. Domestic fuel surcharges will range from P627 to P1,834, while international flights will carry additional charges of P2,070.77 to P15,397.15, depending on distance.