Government readies P3.5 billion for transport subsidyDOTr to roll out free rides, fuel vouchersMANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is preparing P3.5 billion in subsidies for free rides to millions of commuters, and to finance part of the fuel costs of public utility vehicles (PUVs). The DOTr is employing a two-pronged approach in mitigating the impact of rising fuel prices on commuters. The last time that fuel subsidies were issued was in 2023, when about 1.36 million beneficiaries received one-time grants of up to P10,000. President Marcos is expected to certify as urgent any measure that will grant him the power to slash the excise tax on oil products. We collect around P330 to P410 billion per year from oil products, including VAT (value-added tax) and duties,” Nepomuceno noted.

Source: Philippine Star March 08, 2026 16:48 UTC