A proposal to expand the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) net service contracting program is gaining support as rising fuel prices continue to affect the livelihood of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers across the country.
The program seeks to provide more stable earnings for drivers and operators by granting them government subsidies based on the number of kilometers traveled rather than passenger volume. Under the scheme, commuters also receive a 20-percent fare discount.
Senator Win Gatchalian said the initiative is intended to help drivers continue operating despite increasing fuel costs that have forced many to reduce trips or temporarily stop plying their routes.
“Nakikita ko, this program is really meant to help the income of our drivers. Nagtatrabaho ang mga drivers at mayroon silang kinikita,” he said.
The lawmaker also expressed readiness to support additional funding for the program once Congress deliberates on a supplemental budget under the proposed Bayanihan 3 measure.
The net service contracting system was introduced to lessen the financial burden on transport workers by providing fixed payments for services rendered. The arrangement also minimizes operational risks for operators and drivers during periods of unstable fuel prices and lower passenger demand.
While some drivers are receiving cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), officials emphasized that sustaining public transport operations remains the bigger priority to avoid disruptions in daily commuting.
DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the agency requires around P5 billion to keep the program running for two to three months. He also underscored the importance of support from local government units in implementing the initiative.
According to the DOTr, about P740 million has so far been allocated for the program, an amount expected to sustain operations for only around 10 days.