The Department of Energy (DOE) on Thursday assured public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers that government assistance programs will continue amid renewed tensions between the United States and Iran that could further affect global oil prices.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the P10-per-liter fuel discount program for jeepney drivers, implemented in partnership with the Department of Transportation and participating oil companies, will remain available.
Garin said PUV drivers are among those most affected by fluctuations in fuel prices because public transport fares are regulated while fuel prices are determined by market conditions.
“Sila ‘yung sumasalo ng gastos pero hindi sila makasingil ng additional,” Garin said, noting that drivers bear the impact of higher fuel costs without the ability to immediately increase fares.
The Energy chief also cited the role of the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) committee in improving coordination among government agencies and strengthening the DOE’s monitoring of oil price movements.
She said the mechanism helped promote transparency and enabled the government to respond more effectively to recent oil supply concerns.
Garin added that the Philippines avoided widespread panic buying despite global uncertainties, with only limited fuel rationing implemented in some areas.
She said the country managed the situation better than several other nations affected by energy market disruptions.
The Philippines remains under a national energy emergency declared by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in March due to concerns over the stability and availability of the country’s energy supply.