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The government will increase the fuel discount for jeepney and UV Express drivers to Php 12 per liter starting Aug. 15, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto announced Wednesday.
The higher rate was approved during a Cabinet meeting at Malacañang on Tuesday, although it fell below the Php 20-per-liter subsidy proposed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.
The program builds on the Php 10-per-liter assistance introduced in April, which has benefited more than 93,000 public utility vehicle drivers.
Recto said qualified drivers could save up to Php 1,800 a week once the increase takes effect.
The fuel support is part of the government’s response to rising transport costs linked to continued tensions in the Middle East.
Recto also directed the Department of Social Welfare and Development to ensure that UPLIFT assistance reaches farmers, fisherfolk, transport and construction workers, and other low-income earners.
He said government aid and employment support must continue as vulnerable sectors face higher fuel and commodity prices.
Malacañang has yet to release the full guidelines for implementing the expanded discount.
