A transport group said it will continue to push for a fare increase despite the government’s proposed ₱10 per liter fuel subsidy.
The Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (ALTODAP) expressed openness to testing the government’s new measures aimed at addressing transport sector concerns amid the oil crisis.
These include the ₱10 per liter fuel subsidy and the service contracting program announced by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
In an interview with Brigada News FM Manila, ALTODAP President Boy Vargas said the group is willing to try the government’s response first before determining whether it is sufficient.
He noted that the subsidy could help offset income losses among drivers and operators.
However, Vargas suggested that if the measure is implemented, fuel discounts for public utility vehicles (PUVs) should be applied directly at gasoline stations.
He said this approach would be more effective compared to the distribution of aid through various agencies.
Some beneficiaries, he added, have experienced issues with special payout systems, with others failing to receive assistance due to exclusion from beneficiary lists.
In the end, Vargas assured that the group will still push for a fare increase.
He said this would serve as an additional measure in case government interventions fall short, adding that even a ₱2 fare hike would already be a significant help.
